Mechanochemical Synthesis of Catalytic Materials

• Published in: Chemistry : a European journal Vol. 27; no. 23; pp. 6819 - 6847
• Main Authors: Amrute, Amol P., De Bellis, Jacopo, Felderhoff, Michael, Schüth, Ferdi
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Germany Wiley Subscription Services, Inc 21.04.2021; John Wiley and Sons Inc
• Subjects: ball milling; Catalysis; catalyst synthesis; Catalytic converters; Chemical synthesis; Chemistry; comminution; Energy conversion; Environmental protection; heterogeneous catalysis; Material properties; mechanochemistry; Nanomaterials; Nanotechnology; Review; Reviews; nanomaterials; mechanochemistry; ball milling; heterogeneous catalysis; catalyst synthesis; comminution
• ISSN: 0947-6539; 1521-3765; 1521-3765
• DOI: 10.1002/chem.202004583

The mechanochemical synthesis of nanomaterials for catalytic applications is a growing research field due to its simplicity, scalability, and eco‐friendliness. Besides, it provides materials with distinct features, such as nanocrystallinity, high defect concentration, and close interaction of the components in a system, which are, in most cases, unattainable by conventional routes. Consequently, this research field has recently become highly popular, particularly for the preparation of catalytic materials for various applications, ranging from chemical production over energy conversion catalysis to environmental protection. In this Review, recent studies on mechanochemistry for the synthesis of catalytic materials are discussed. Emphasis is placed on the straightforwardness of the mechanochemical route—in contrast to more conventional synthesis—in fabricating the materials, which otherwise often require harsh conditions. Distinct material properties achieved by mechanochemistry are related to their improved catalytic performance. Mechanochemical routes enable the synthesis of different families of catalytic materials in a more sustainable and convenient way than classical methods. In addition, unusual properties may arise, leading to improved catalytic performance. The review covers the major achievements in the synthesis of catalysts assisted by mechanochemistry, discusses associated aspects, and provides perspectives.