Applications of Nanoporous Gold in Heterogeneous Catalysis

In addition to the investigation of the surface chemistry of the pristine npAu material we direct efforts towards a controlled modification of the surface of nanoporous gold (npAu). We, hereby, seek to extend the current boundaries of Au-based functional materials and develop npAu as a platform for tailored functionalization with chemical entities such as ad-metals, organic entities or metal oxides.

For instance, we have functionalized the surface of npAu with metal oxides in a cost-effective and reproducible way for applications in gas phase catalysis. In the case of titania-coated npAu, a catalyst for CO oxidation as well as NO reduction with so far unprecedented high activity could be obtained. Concomitantly, the metal oxide stabilizes the nanostructure up to 600°C, opening the door for high-temperature applications such as exhaust gas treatment.

Further catalytic applications of np-Au currently pursued by our group are electro-oxidation as well as selective gas-phase oxidation of methanol at low temperatures. We also investigate water-gas shift (WGS) reaction and reverse WGS. WGS (CO + H₂O -> CO₂ + H₂) is known for its potential to produce clean hydrogen, e.g., for usage in fuel cells, and reverse WGS (CO₂ + H₂ -> CO + H₂O) is one of the most promising processes for CO₂ utilization. In combination with the Fischer-Tropsch reaction it can serve to produce synthetic fuels.

Andre Wichmann, Arne Wittstock

References:

• A. Wichmann, A. Wittstock, K. Frank, M.M. Biener, B. Neumann, L. Mädler, J. Biener, A. Rosenauer, M. Bäumer, Chemcatchem 5 (2013) 2037.
• A. Wittstock, A. Wichmann, M. Bäumer, ACS Catalysis 2 (2012) 2199.

Cooperation partner: Andreas Rosenauer, IFP, Universität Bremen

Funding: Universität Bremen, Func-Band Initiative

For detailed information contact Arne Wittstock

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