Anchoring Pd Nanoparticles with Low Loading on Co,N‐Doped Carbon Framework for the Synergistic Reduction of Nitrophenols

Abstract The reduction of nitro‐compound to amino‐compound through catalytic transfer hydrogenation over Pd‐based nanostructured composites is an attractive issue. Herein, a series of nanocomposites including Pd nanoparticles with low weight loading anchored on N, Co‐doped carbon framework (Co@NC) was prepared by a facile method. Among these, 1.5 % Pd/Co@NC had the highest catalytic activity towards the reduction of nitrophenols. The enhanced activity may be ascribed to N‐doping, synergistic effect and the interaction between well‐dispersed Pd nanoparticles and N, Co‐doped carbon framework by stabilizing metal nanoparticles with smaller size and good dispersion, improving the adsorption of reactants on the surface of Pd/Co@NC and facilitating electron transfer from NaBH 4 to the product. Furthermore, the catalyst maintained regular morphology and activity even after recycling experiments, indicating that it may be used in industrial applications.