Developing efficient, cost-effective and robust catalysts for soot combustion is crucial yet challenging. In this study, we fabricated Ag-loaded Sm2Ce2O7 paramorphs catalysts (C-type and Cubic fluorite) via different methods, aiming to improve the distribution and interaction of Ag by modifying the crystalline structures of the supports to enhance oxygen activation. The oxygen vacancy concentration and redox performance of the rare earth C-type catalysts exceeded those of the cubic fluorite ones. In the case of the Ag-assisted catalysts, the Sm2Ce2O7–Ag interface with oxygen vacancies displayed an increased affinity for oxygen. The distribution state of Ag on the catalysts is closely related to the Ag–support interactions and the active sites on the support. Experimental analyses and density functional theory (DFT) calculations have revealed a more even dispersion of the Ag species on the C-type catalyst; differential charge density and Bader charge analysis have confirmed that the Ag loadings can alter the surface charge arrangement, resulting in stronger electronic interactions between Ag and the Sm2Ce2O7-C support. Uniformly dispersed Ag species can effectively promote the activation of gaseous O2 molecules, which is key in the oxidation of soot particles. This approach provides a promising strategy for developing more applicable catalysts for soot combustion.
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