Tailoring the 3D Structure of Pd Nanocatalysts Supported on Mesoporous Carbon for Furfural Hydrogenation

Abstract By quantitative 3D structural characterization of Pd nanoparticles supported on mesoporous carbon, we identify the most important structural aspects of the catalysts, which are responsible for the activity, selectivity and stability in liquid phase furfural hydrogenation. A systematic series of catalysts were prepared by three synthetic methods: incipient wetness impregnation, wet impregnation and immobilization of preformed PVA stabilized nanoparticles in order to control the Pd nanoparticle distribution on the external and internal surfaces of the mesoporous carbon. The activity and selectivity of these catalysts are highly affected by the particle locations. More Pd nanoparticles located inside pores promote the formation of 2‐methyl furan, while selectivity to furfuryl alcohol and tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol is suppressed correspondingly. Through recycling tests we find that leaching depends on the synthesis process and plays an important role with respect to catalytic stability.