Shichang Wang, Jingdan Shi, Cancan Cui, Yueying Chen, Zhengxian Chen, Xin Yu, Ting Wang

Applied Catalysis B: Environment and Energy

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0926337326003577#ack0005

Published:27 March 2026

Abstract

Photothermal catalysis offers a promising route for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) abatement, yet its efficiency is often limited by insufficient redox regulation at active interfaces. Herein, we construct an amorphous-crystalline MnOx/Nb2O5 interface that enables efficient and durable photothermal oxidation of toluene under full-spectrum irradiation. The amorphous MnOx layer broadens light absorption and provides redox-flexible Mn-O sites, while Nb2O5 ensures energy harvesting, structural stability and charge separation. COMSOL simulations and operando spectroscopic analyses collectively reveal a thermally dominant Mars-van Krevelen mechanism dynamically buffered by reversible Mn4 + /Mn3+ cycling and lattice oxygen migration, with light-induced reactive oxygen species selectively accelerating C–H activation and aromatic ring opening. As a result, the catalyst demonstrates stable photothermal toluene oxidation with effective mineralization, highlighting the functional role of dynamic redox buffering rather than relying on extreme activity enhancement. Life cycle assessment further confirms its environmental advantages of integrating photo-thermal activation. This work highlights amorphous-crystalline interface redox buffering as a key design principle for sustainable and energy-efficient photothermal VOCs oxidation.