Structural and chemical evolution of Co(OH)2 nanosheets doped with Ga2O3 under CO2 hydrogenation

Inspired by the interesting properties of 2D materials, we developed in our group a serie of Co(OH)2 nanosheet that showed interesting properties in the CO2 hydrogenation. Moreover, with an attempt to modify the surface properties of active sites and create new sites at the interface between different metals, promoters such as CeO2, Ga2O3 and ZrO2 have been added by a novel inverse synthesis strategy. This synthetic approach allows a well interaction between active sites. By adding Ga2O3 as promoter, the activity increases around 2 times in the 240 to 320 °C temperature range, and the catalyst gain in stability. The goal of the study, is to analyse the local environment and coordination number of the different elements (Co and Ga), which are strongly influenced by the laminar structure of the material, monitoring the state of the elements at the different stages of the reaction. This project will offer the possibility to introduce a new class of 2D catalysts in the CO2 hydrogenation reaction, opening a new front in catalysis.