Metal-organic framework derived hexagonal layered cobalt oxides with {1 1 2} facets and rich oxygen vacancies: High efficiency catalysts for total oxidation of propane

Abstract

A cobalt-based metal–organic framework was used as a precursor to synthesize Co3O4 catalysts exhibiting a hexagonal layered morphology by calcination at varying temperatures. Various characterization techniques, such as XRD, SEM, Raman, H2-TPR, O2-TPD and N2 adsorption–desorption, were used to study the effects of calcination temperature on the grain size, surface area, and pore volume of the catalysts. The Co3O4 catalyst obtained by calcination at 350 °C (Co3O4-350) exhibited the highest catalytic activity for the total oxidation of propane. Furthermore, the small grain size and layered structure of Co3O4-350 allowed it to possess a high specific surface area, a highly exposed {112} facets, and abundantoxygen defects that facilitated a favorable low-temperature reducibility and oxygen mobility, thereby improving catalytic activity. This research offers a simple strategy for synthesis of Co3O4 with layered structure, highly exposed {112} facets and rich oxygen defects.