Heterogeneous Catalysis by Gold-based Bimetallic Catalysts

This critical review summarizes recent advances on the preparation, characterization and application of Aubased bimetallic Au-M catalysts. Particularly bimetallic Au-Pd, Au-Pt and Au-Ag catalysts have been emphasized. The diversity of the structure and combination of these bimetallic Au-M catalysts leads to various catalytic performances in, i.e., oxidation, hydrogenation, electrocatalytic, and photocatalytic reactions. The promotional effects of Au have been discussed by its electronic and geometric modifications of active metals. Efforts on controlling the structure (morphology, particle size and growth of crystalline) of supported bimetallic Au-M catalysts via advanced synthetic approaches have been elaborated. An overview on the challenges and opportunities for future research toward the understanding of catalytic chemistry of gold-based bimetallic systems has also been presented along with the descrption of few of the recent patents. Keywords: Bimetallic catalyst, nanoalloy, gold-based catalysts, Au-Pd, Au-Cu, Au-Ag.