Selective hydrogenation catalysis enabled by nanoscale galvanic reactions

By mimicking nanoscale galvanic reactions, this study focuses on optimizing catalytic hydrogenation by introducing two spatially separated sites for the activation of H₂ into proton and electron pairs and the selective reduction of –NO₂. The catalyst system is designed with the co-deposition of Pt and Fe₂O₃ nanoparticles on conductive carbon nanotubes, establishing an electron-transferring pathway. Protic solvents facilitate proton transport. Upon activation of H₂ molecules into proton and electron pairs on Pt, modified with ammonia or amines, these active species are efficiently transferred to Fe₂O₃ nanoparticles for the selective reduction of –NO₂ into amines without affecting other functional groups. Compared with Pt/CNT, which easily hydrogenates both C=C and –NO₂ groups of 4-nitrostyrene, the Pt&Fe₂O₃/CNT catalyst modified by NH₃ exhibits higher activity and selectivity for –NO₂ hydrogenation. Electrochemically, Pt functions as the anode for the hydrogen oxidation reaction, while Fe₂O₃ acts as the cathode, selectively reducing –NO₂.