ZrO2 Acting as a Redox Catalyst

Surface defects are discussed and reviewed with regards to the use of ZrO2 in applications involving interactions with CO, H2, CH4, CO2, water and hydrocarbons. Studies of catalytic partial oxidation of methane reveal that part of the surface lattice oxygen in terraces can be removed by methane at high temperatures (e.g. 900 °C). The reaction proceeds via a surface confined redox mechanism. The studies presented here also highlight that defects play a decisive role in the water–gas-shift reaction, since the reaction is likely carried out via OH groups present at defect sites, which are regenerated by dissociating water. Hydroxyl chemistry on ZrO2 is briefly reviewed related to the studies p…