The macroporous supported Cu–V oxide prepared
by a novel
dissolution–reprecipitation process was found to be the first
example of a promising substitute of Pt catalysts for sulfuric acid
decomposition at moderate temperatures (∼600 °C), which
is required in solar thermochemical hydrogen production. Stepwise
impregnation of Cu(NO3)2 and NH4VO3 onto 3-D ordered mesoporous SiO2, and subsequent
heating at 650 °C yielded the deposition of copper pyrovanadate
(Cu2V2O7, melting point: 780 °C)
not only in mesopores but also on the external surface. Thermal aging
at 800 °C caused the congruent melting of Cu2V2O7 followed by smooth penetration of the melt into
mesopores and homogeneous covering of cavity walls. Because of the
solubility of SiO2 into the molten vanadate, dissolution–reprecipitation
should be equilibrated to allow substantial structural conversion
from mesoporous to macroporous SiO2 frameworks. The resulting
macroporous catalyst consisting of highly dispersed thin layers of
active Cu2V2O7 is considered efficient
for catalytic reactions and the mass transfer of reactants and products
in the presence of high-concentration vapors.
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