Au/TiO2 catalysts prepared by borohydride reduction for preferential CO oxidation at near-ambient temperature

Abstract Au nanoparticles were prepared in solution using HAuCl4.3H2O as Au precursor, sodium citrate as stabilizing agent and sodium borohydride as reducing agent. The influence of synthesis parameters such as BH4:Au and Citrate:Au ratios were studied. In a further step, the stabilized Au nanoparticles were supported on TiO2 with different Au loadings (wt%). The resulting Au/TiO2 catalysts were characterized by Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and Transmission Electron Microscopy and tested for the preferential oxidation of carbon monoxide in hydrogen-rich stream. Au nanoparticles stabilized in solution were obtained with sizes in the range of 3-4 nm. After supported on TiO2, the Au nanoparticles size did not change and the Au/TiO2 catalysts exhibited excellent performance and stability in the temperature range of 20 - 50°C.