On the role of bismuth as modifier in AuPdBi catalysts: Effects on liquid-phase oxidation and hydrogenation reactions

There is much about the action of bismuth within heterogeneous catalysis that still require a deeper understanding. We observed that, when Bi was added to AuPd bimetallic nanoparticles (NPs) supported on activated carbon, affected activity and significantly alters selectivity in two model liquid phase reactions, namely oxidation cinnamyl alcohol hydrogenation cinnamaldehyde. A combination transmission electron microscopy X-ray absorption spectroscopy provided detailed characterization trimetallic AuPdBi systems. propose introduction NPs results partial blockage most active sites, limiting occurrence consecutive reactions.