The surface science of metal oxides -- the investigation of their fundamental surface properties, and of the adsorption and reactions of molecules -- has experienced a dramatic growth during the past two decades. In this field titanium dioxide, TiO2, has evolved as the prototypical material. The surfaces of TiO2 are well understood, can be prepared with a controlled density of intrinsic defects and hydroxyls, and have been used in a multitude of theoretical and experimental investigations. Results from such studies have led to insights that are relevant in a wide variety of applications, ranging from (photo-)catalysis to novel electronic devices.In the talk I will present a personal perspective of TiO2 surface science research, with emphasis on most recent results. I will show how we can monitor adsorption in a molecule-by-molecule fashion, and manipulate the motion of molecules and atoms across, into, and out of the surface. I will also briefly discuss other metal oxides, and point out opportunities and challenges that surface investigations hold in the future.

Award Address  (Arthur W. Adamson Award for Distinguished Service in the Advancement of Surface Chemistry sponsored by ACS Division of Colloid and Surface Chemistry and ACS Publications Journal Langmuir). Surface science of titania and other metal oxides

245th National Meeting (2013)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.