Catalytic Oxidation of BTX (Benzene, Toluene, and Xylene) Using Metal Oxide Perovskites

Abstract

The high toxicity, volatility, and dispersion of the light aromatics, benzene, toluene, and xylene (BTX) pose a serious threat to the environment and human health. Compared to incineration, catalytic oxidation technologies for BTX removal offer benefits such as low energy consumption, high efficiency, and low pollution. ABO3–type perovskite catalysts (ABO3–PCs) are particularly promising materials for the catalytic oxidation of BTX due to their high activity and thermal stability, as well as their adjustable elemental composition and flexible structure allowing their properties to be improved. Nonetheless, the full potential of ABO3–PCs for the oxidation of BTX has yet to be reached. This review systematically and critically analyses progress in the catalytic oxidation of BTX by ABO3–PCs. Catalytic performance is assessed for each category of perovskite, including non–doped, doped (A–, B–, or A/B–site doped), and loading type (noble metal, metal oxide, and matrix composite), with structure–activity relationships are established. A kinetic model and proposed mechanism for the catalytic oxidation of BTX are also presented. Finally, the challenges and opportunities of ABO3–PCs applied to BTX oxidation and other reactions are highlighted.