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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Surface science of heterogeneous catalysis

Conference ·
OSTI ID:6654588

Through studies of model catalysts, the following three reaction parameters for selective molecular scale catalysis have been identified: (1) atomic surface structure; (2) an active carbonaceous deposit; and (3) the proper oxidation states of surface atoms. Each of these reaction parameters are discussed citing examples in order to understand how the catalytic reaction occurs. Two examples which illustrate the importance of the presence of higher oxidation states of transition metal ions at the catalyst surface are discussed. These are carbon monoxide hydrogenation over rhodium and photodissociation of water over reduced SrTiO/sub 3/ surfaces. As a result of combined surface science and catalytic studies on well defined model catalyst systems many of the molecular ingredients of heterogeneous catalysis have been uncovered. Brief descriptions of several attempts to build a new catalyst that incorporate the three reaction parameters are discussed. (ATT)

Research Organization:
Lawrence Berkeley Lab., CA (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
AC03-76SF00098
OSTI ID:
6654588
Report Number(s):
LBL-14135; CONF-8111128-1; ON: DE83002227
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English