Deposition of palladium nanoparticles in SBA-15 templated silica using supercritical carbon dioxide.

Abstract: Preparation of supported nanoparticles by palladium deposition onto silica (SBA-15) from a solution of tris(dibenzylideneacetone) dipalladium(0) (Pd2(dba)3) in supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) was successfully achieved. Pd2(dba)3 avoided agglomeration of nanoparticles, which is typically associated with secondary processes including reduction of metal salts. scCO2 impregnation was superior at depositing palladium nanoparticles within the porous channels of SBA-15, as compared to organic solvents. The resulting material demonstrated significant potential for use in catalytic applications including hydrogenations and showed specific selectivity towards alkene hydrogenation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]