Activation of CO, O2 and H2 on gold-based catalysts Original Research Article

Au/CeOx/Al2O3 is highly active for CO oxidation at low temperatures and full conversion is already achieved around 60 °C. From experimental results, it is concluded that ceria can act as oxygen supplier probably via Mars and van Krevelen mechanism. The H2–D2 isotopic exchange reaction is also efficiently catalyzed by Au/Al2O3. The gold particle size is of crucial importance for high activity. Most likely, a gold surface rich in defects activates the H2 (D2) molecules.