Preparation, structure and catalytic performances of rare earth catalytic materials

The research and development of rare earth catalytic materials will greatly promote the high-efficiency utilization of abundant rare earth elements, such as La and Ce. Rare earth elements have under-filled 4f orbits and lanthanide contraction, resulting in their unique catalytic performances when used as an active component or the carrier of catalysts. This paper reviews the progress in the preparation, structural and catalytic properties of rare earth catalytic materials, containing rare earth oxides, rare earth composite oxides, rare earth-noble metal catalysts and rare earth modified porous materials. The effects of rare earth elements on the structures, activities and stabilities of the concerned catalysts are mainly described. As well as, the interactions between rare earth metals and transition metals or noble metals are also elaborated, which are critical for the performances of the catalysts. Finally, the development thinking for rare earth catalytic materials is put forwarded and outlooked.