Easy synthesis of three-dimensionally ordered macroporous La1−xKxCoO3 catalysts and their high activities for the catalytic combustion of soot

Three-dimensionally ordered macroporous (3DOM) La1−xKxCoO3 (x = 0–0.3) perovskite-type oxide catalysts with large pore sizes and interconnected macroporous frameworks were successfully synthesized by a novel method of carboxy-modified colloidal crystal templates (CMCCT). The obtained catalysts were characterized by means of XRD, FT-IR, SEM, TEM, BET, XPS, and H2 TPR. The detailed preparation process was investigated using in situ TG–DSC, Raman, and EDS analyses. The sp2-hybridized carbon atoms of the modified polymer templates can be converted to sturdy amorphous carbon materials by calcination under an inert atmosphere to prevent the macrostructure from collapsing. The active site densities of catalysts were determined by isothermal anaerobic titration, and their turnover frequency (TOF) values were then calculated. The catalytic performances for soot combustion were evaluated using temperature-programmed oxidation (TPO) reaction technology. 3DOM La1−xKxCoO3 catalysts exhibited catalytic activities as high as that of noble metal Pt catalysts under loose contact conditions.