Probing the core and surface composition of nanoalloy to rationalize its selectivity: Study of Ni-Fe/SiO2 catalysts for liquid-phase hydrogenation

Rationalization of the catalytic performance bimetallic Ni-Fe catalysts in selective hydrogenation reactions is based on Ni and Fe distribution within nanoparticles at their surface. By applying a combination element-specific surface-specific characterization techniques (57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy, X-ray absorption low-energy ion scattering) to series Ni-Fe/SiO2 differing by molar proportions, we showed that reduced exhibit gradient concentrations from Ni-enriched core Ni-depleted, Fe-enriched outer shells. A surface proportion 35–45 atom % highest yield furfuryl alcohol liquid-phase hydroconversion furfural. These results point need for domains limited size among atoms restrict process its first stage rather than nominal compositions catalyst or sites would appear be particularly per se.