Cobalt nanoparticles encapsulated in nitrogen doped graphite as a highly efficient and reusable catalyst for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol

Abstract

The present investigation presents a facile approach for synthesizing cobalt nanoparticles encapsulated in nitrogen-doped graphite (Co@NC) for catalytic purposes. The Co@NC composite was employed for the conversion of 4-nitrophenol to 4-aminophenol. Despite the extensive research conducted on the catalytic efficacy of transition metal catalysts, the examination of the cobalt catalyst's durability and reusability over successive reaction cycles remains unexplored. A Co@NC composite catalyst was synthesized using innovative precursors of glucose, urea, and cobalt nitrate. The results demonstrate that the high specific surface area and pore structure of the Co@NC composite catalyst not only have a high adsorption capacity but also accelerate the rate of electron transfer. Due to the synergistic effects of cobaltic metal and nitrogen-doped graphite, the Co@NC catalyst displays remarkable catalytic effects comparable to those of noble metal catalysts. The stable 92% 4-NP conversion rate after 10 reaction cycles also demonstrated the reusability of the composite catalyst. The Co@NC composite catalyst possesses a number of noteworthy characteristics, including excellent recyclability, high stability, and easy magnetic recovery. These characteristics make it a promising option for practical applications in the removal of 4-nitrophenol from industrial water.