Synthesis, Characterization of Au/V2O5/CeO2, Au/V2O5/TiO2 Catalysts and Their Performance in VOC-Related Malodor Treatment

VOC-related malodor is an important indoor air problem that is difficult to treat due to its transient nature. These gaseous contaminants including common solvents such as benzene, toluene and xylene, are present in many household items. Prolonged exposure of VOC-related malodor is known to lead to irritation, respiratory distress and many of these compounds are suspected carcinogens. Malodor abatement by catalytic process is a promising and attractive method for treating these problematic pollutants. However, the catalyst must be sufficiently active and selective under practical ambient conditions of low temperature and high humidity. This work explored a series of catalysts based on supported vanadia-ceria and vanadia-titania materials. Nano-gold catalysts were deposited on these materials to promote low temperature VOC conversions. The detailed structure, composition and chemistry of the catalysts were characterized by various microscopy, diffraction and spectroscopy techniques. Operando technique was used to monitor the catalyst during reaction (i.e., BTX oxidations) to better understand the reaction pathways and mechanisms. Finally, dispersing the Au/vanadia-ceria and Au/vanadia-titania within hydrophobic porous matrix allows the catalyst to tolerate operation at high humidity (i.e., 100 % R.H.).