Unraveling and optimizing the metal-metal oxide synergistic effect in a highly active Co (CoO)1– catalyst for CO2 hydrogenation

The relation between catalytic reactivities and metal/metal oxide ratios, as well the functions of metal oxides were investigated in CO2 hydrogenation reaction over highly active Cox(CoO)1–x catalysts operando. reactivity samples methanation improves with increased CoO concentration. Strikingly, sample highest concentration CoO, i.e., Co0.2(CoO)0.8, shows activity at temperatures lower than 200 °C where other less are inactive. origins this improvement amount moderate binding adsorbed on sites. derivative adsorption species found to be intermediates CH4 formation. metallic Co electronically site which provides electrons for steps. As a result, an abundant combined is optimal composition catalyst achieving hydrogenation.