Size-tailored microwave absorption and reaction activity of Co₃O₄ nanocatalysts

Microwave (MW)-assisted heterogeneous catalytic chemical reactions have opened advanced routines over the conventional methodology. MW absorption ability of catalyst governed by its particle size is the foremost important factor to be considered before designing catalysts for such MW-based chemistry. Despite considerable interest in applying metallic-based catalysts for MW-assisted reactions, the influences of particle size on catalyst's MW absorption ability and its resultant activity remain elusive. Here, we report an effective approach to tailor the MW absorption ability of Co₃O₄ catalyst via controlling its particle size during the crystal growth. A developed theoretical model verified that a capping agent could regulate Co₃O₄ particle size effectively. For the unsupported Co₃O₄ catalysts, smaller particle size possessed higher MW absorption capacity and thereby delivered higher activity for MW-assisted bi-reforming of methane. High conversion of 63% CH₄ and a syngas ratio (H₂/CO) of 2.2 was achieved with the smallest Co₃O₄ particles, at 20 nm. In contrast, the supported Co₃O₄ samples required larger particles to ensure adequate exposure to the incident MW, which is partially covered by MW-inert support. The results disclose that by tailoring particles size appropriately, metallic-based catalysts can be optimised for MW-based chemical reactions.