Metal nanoparticles with a clean surface via clay-nanosheets as stabilizers and supports for catalytic hydrogenation reactions in aqueous-phase

Aqueous soluble metal NPs with a clean surface are colloidal synthesis with a general route via clay-nanosheets as both stabilizers and a supports. The metal NPs are favored for a green catalytic application through catalytic hydrogenation in water solvent. Due to its clean surface and two-dimensional (2D) structure for a great promotion on hydrogenation activity, the metal NPs show superior catalytic performances for hydrogenation of aromatic hydrocarbons in water under mild condition.