The reaction of nitrogen atoms with hydrocarbons on transition metal surfaces is a key step in many heterogeneously catalyzed processes, including the reduction of NOx in automotive catalysis and in the catalytic synthesis of HCN from ammonia and methane. For UHV surface science studies of the reactivity of nitrogen on model catalysts it is desirable to begin with a well characterized nitrogen-covered surface. Through the reaction of NH3 with O2, a well ordered p-(2x2) N overlayer can be prepared on the Pt(111) surface. The reactions of hydrocarbons such as acetylene, ethylene, and styrene deposited onto the p-(2x2)-N/Pt(111) surface have been studied with reflection absorption infrared spectroscopy and temperature programmed reaction spectroscopy. In each case, hydrogen is transferred from hydrocarbon fragments to nitrogen to form ammonia. Carbon-nitrogen coupling is also observed, as indicated by desorption of HCN. In the case of styrene, carbon-nitrogen coupling also leads to the formation of benzonitrile.

Reaction of nitrogen atoms with hydrocarbons on the Pt(111) surface

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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