Sum Frequency Generation (SFG), a form of surface-sensitive vibrational spectroscopy, has emerged as an invaluable tool to reveal intermediates on the surface of metal catalysts. More recently, research in heterogeneous catalysis has moved away from perfect single crystals to model nanoparticles made in colloidal synthesis. We use SFG and kinetic experiments to assess cyclohexene and cis/trans-2-butene hydrogenation reactions on highly washed PVP-capped platinum nanoparticles with size and shape control. Changes in product selectivity are correlated to changes in reactive intermediates observed with SFG. In contrast to previous SFG studies on nanoparticles, no cap removal is used other than standard washing procedures. This provides a more accurate description of the intermediates which exist on 3D supported catalysts where the capping is intact.

Sum frequency generation studies of hydrogenation reactions on PVP-capped Pt nanoparticles

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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