Industrial heterogeneous catalysts, composed of metal nanoparticles, have been widely utilized owing to their high surface to volume ratio. However, the broad size distribution of these particles, and the lack of structural characterization have been obstacles in understanding their structure-dependent catalytic activity and selectivity. A nanoparticle with well-defined surfaces, prepared through colloidal chemistry, enables it to be studied as a model heterogeneous catalyst. Catalytic reaction studies have been conducted to study how size, shape, and composition of nanoparticles affect to change catalytic activity and selectivity. Using specific interactions between metal nanoparticles and oxide supports, catalytic performances can be changed as well. In situsurface characterization techniques enable real-time monitoring of working catalysts under various conditions and provide molecular information during the reaction. Molecular factors influencing catalytic performance such as oxidation states, intra-metallic distances, coordination numbers, and distribution of atom sites can be identified under dynamic reaction conditions. From this research, the best catalyst can be designed to produces only one desired product for 100% selectivity at high turnover rates to reduce the production of undesirable wastes. Furthermore, the knowledge getting from catalysis can be extended other fields including energy and environment.

Designed synthesis of nanoparticle catalysts for catalytic reaction studies

248th National Meeting (2014)

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