Tuning the structure and catalytic activity of Ru nanoparticle catalysts by single 3d transition-metal atoms in Ru₁₂–metalloporphyrin precursors

Ru nanoparticle catalysts were prepared from Ru₁₂–metalloporphyrin complex precursors containing 3d transition-metal atoms attached to SiO₂ surfaces. The single 3d metal atoms at the central position of the Ru₁₂–metalloporphyrin complex precursors exerted a significant influence on the structures and hydrogenation performance of the Ru nanoparticles on the SiO₂ surfaces. The Ru₁₂–Cu–porphyrin complex afforded positively charged Ru nanoparticles, which would provide high activity toward aromatic hydrogenation.