Simultaneous optimization of porous features and cobalt nanoparticles of N-doped mesoporous carbon catalysts can be realized by fine-tuning the thermolysis temperature. [Photo/sxu.edu.cn]

Shanxi University's Institute of Crystalline Materials has made a significant breakthrough in highly selective hydrogenation of nitroaromatics, which has great application potential in chemical manufacturing.

The finding was published in the Journal of Catalysis, a monthly peer-reviewed scientific journal established in 1962, which is regarded as the authority in the catalysis field.

Zhang Fengwei, a teacher at SXU's crystalline materials institute, was the lead author of the research paper. Co-authors include two professors and a senior student at the school.

The research group has contributed to developing an N-doped mesoporous carbon catalyst to realize the highly selective and stable hydrogenation of nitroaromatics under mild conditions.

The study was funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China.