Catalytic oxidation of volatile organic compounds: A review of recent advances in supported and non-supported catalysts

Abstract

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are air pollutants that have garnered considerable consideration because of their detrimental effects on both public health and the environment. Catalytic oxidation is extensively recognized as an emerging technology for VOC elimination, as it produces no secondary pollutants and requires low energy input. This review systematically examines recent advancements in supported noble metal catalysts (SNM), supported transition metal catalysts (STM) and non-supported transition metal oxides (NSTM) for VOC oxidation. First, various types of VOCs and their emission sources are discussed. Next, recent progress in the catalytic oxidation of different VOCs using SNM, STM and NSTM is reviewed. The oxidation mechanisms of VOCs are then comprehensively summarized. Additionally, the effects of reaction conditions, including the presence of H₂O, CO₂, SO₂, Cl species as well as reactant composition, concentration, and space velocity, on catalyst performance, deactivation, and regeneration approaches are explored. Finally, the key scientific obstacles and future perspectives in this field are addressed. This review provides as a solid experimental and theoretical basis for the development and design of stable SNM, STM and NSTM catalysts for VOC oxidation in the years to come.