Development of Supported NiO Nanocluster for Aerobic Oxidation of 1-Phenylethanol and Elucidation of Reaction Mechanism via X-ray Analysis

Abstract

Abstract Supported NiO nanocluster catalysts were synthesized by using Ni colloid as a precursor and applied to the aerobic oxidation of 1-phenylethanol. Obtained catalysts were characterized through X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and in situ X-ray diffraction (XRD). Activated carbon (AC) supported NiO nanocluster catalyst showed catalytic activity toward the aerobic oxidation of 1-phenylethanol without any additives. Only the AC support allowed the NiO catalyst to be active although other supports did not. XAFS and in situ XRD revealed that NiO nanocluster was fixed on the supports successfully. XAFS and XPS gave information about differences in the local structure, chemical state and electronic state of Ni among the different supports. The obtained catalyst showed activity more effectively compared to conventional nickel-based catalysts.