Pt/Al2O3 for Efficient CF4 Hydrolytic Decomposition

Tetrafluoromethane (CF4) is one of the most stable perfluorinated compounds because of its highly symmetric molecular structure and extremely strong C–F bonds. Catalytic hydrolysis provides a promising route for CF4 abatement, yet the development of efficient catalysts capable of activating C–F bonds at reduced temperatures remains challenging. Herein, Pt-modified Al2O3 catalysts were prepared to promote CF4 decomposition through the regulation of surface acidity, CF4 adsorption, and hydroxyl formation. NH3 temperature-programmed desorption revealed that Pt introduction significantly enhanced the surface acidity of Al2O3, while CF4 temperature-programmed desorption demonstrated strengthened CF4 adsorption over Pt/Al2O3. In situ infrared spectroscopy further showed that Pt incorporation promoted the generation of surface hydroxyl groups under reaction-relevant conditions. These hydroxyl species are proposed to participate in C–F bond activation during CF4 hydrolysis. As a result, Pt/Al2O3 achieved complete CF4 decomposition at 600 °C and maintained excellent stability during the long-term test, clearly outperforming pristine Al2O3. This work demonstrates that Pt/Al2O3 is an effective catalyst for CF4 decomposition by coupling enhanced acidity, improved CF4 adsorption, and hydroxyl-assisted C–F bond activation.