Mesoporous Co–Mn Spinel Oxides as Efficient Catalysts for Low Temperature Propane Oxidation

A series of mesoporous cobalt–manganese catalysts were successfully synthesized by sol–gel method as efficient catalysts for the propane oxidation. A significant increase in activity was observed over Co 1 Mn 1 O x catalysts with a T 50 value of 203 °C compared to pure oxides of manganese and cobalt. Co 3+ species which is formed by diffusion of Co 2+ ions into spinel octahedral sites are thought to be a key factor influencing catalyst activity. The large amount of Co 3+ species provides the sites for the reaction and enhances the redox capacity of the catalyst. In addition, the high specific surface area and the better oxygen migration promote the low-temperature oxidation of propane. The large specific surface area and mesoporous structure accelerate the diffusion and adsorption of gases, and the increased oxygen migration capacity accelerates the rate of oxidation reactions, all of which have a positive effect on propane oxidation. Graphical Abstract