Copper content effect in V2O5/TiO2–ZrO2 catalysts prepared by the sol–gel method

Cu–V/TiO2–ZrO2 catalysts were prepared by the sol–gel method. The XRD results show the formation of an amorphous phase. With the EPR technique, Cu2+ and V4+ ions were identified and confirmed by UV–Vis-RD. The TPR technique showed modifications in the reducibility of copper and vanadium, and species present in the catalysts, which depend on the copper content. Cu additions to V/TiO2–ZrO2 catalysts improve the basic properties that influence the production of acetone that is selectively formed in this kind of sites, in addition to improving the specific surface area of the catalytic materials. These changes had a positive impact on the CO oxidation reaction.