Investigation on the structure-activity relationship and the role of peroxo groups on the TiO2 surface in thioanisole oxidation with hydrogen peroxide

Author(s)

Fajardo, Humberto, V ; Teixeira, Moises P. ; Ribeiro, Lucas S. ; Giroto, Amanda S. ; Nogueira, Andre E.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: MATERIALS SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING B-ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL SOLID-STATE MATERIALS; v. 315, p. 7-pg., 2025-05-01.

Abstract

The study details the synthesis of TiO2 catalysts with varying peroxo group content and crystallinity levels, followed by a comprehensive characterization using techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TG), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The catalytic activity of these TiO2 catalysts was systematically evaluated for the oxidation of thioanisole under varying reaction times and temperatures. The findings indicate that catalysts exhibiting higher crystallinity and reduced surface peroxo group content display superior catalytic activity and selectivity toward methyl phenyl sulfone. Notably, the TiO2 catalyst subjected to a 400 degrees C heat treatment demonstrates optimal performance. This research underscores the crucial role of surface properties and reaction conditions in catalytic processes, offering valuable insights for the designing of efficient and environmentally friendly oxidation reactions. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 23/14112-7 - Development of hydrolysable polymers for protection, transport and controlled release of plant growth-promoting microorganisms
• Grantee: Lucas da Silva Ribeiro
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• FAPESP's process: 23/17686-4 - Development of multifunctional niobium catalysts: advances in CO2 conversion and H2 generation
• Grantee: André Esteves Nogueira
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants