The role of ceria/precious metal interfaces in catalysis

Abstract

The popularity of ceria (CeO₂) supports has been increasing over the last three decades on account of the rich redox chemistry of such an oxide. The ability to act as an oxygen buffer and switch the oxidation state of Ce depending on conditions implies that the role of this oxide goes beyond the conventional function of stabilizing nanoparticles. In fact, ceria can actively participate in catalytic reactions by interacting with the supported metal, in particular precious metals, promoting various types of dynamic processes that are beneficial for catalysis. This perspective put into light such interfacial synergy, and the effects in several catalytic processes, encompassing the most traditional applications up to the most modern reaction schemes.