AVS 49th International Symposium
    Surface Science Tuesday Sessions
       Session SS1-TuM

Paper SS1-TuM8
Catalytic Arene Oxidation on Supported Platinum Nanoparticles

Tuesday, November 5, 2002, 10:40 am, Room C-108

Session: Hydrocarbon Catalysis
Presenter: A.L. Marsh, University of Michigan
Authors: A.L. Marsh, University of Michigan
G.E. Mitchell, The Dow Chemical Company
D.A. Fischer, National Institute of Standards and Technology
J.L. Gland, University of Michigan
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The cleanup of volatile organic compounds from industrial emissions is a current environmental issue that requires knowledge of molecular-level mechanisms for catalytic processes. Aromatics such as benzene, toluene, and chlorobenzene are often present in emissions because of their stability. However, these molecules can be removed by oxidation over nanoparticulate-supported catalysts. In order to better understand the mechanisms of catalytic oxidation, the reactions of benzene, toluene, and chlorobenzene on a commercial alumina-supported platinum catalyst have been characterized both in vacuum and in the presence of oxygen. Molecular-level mechanisms for both decomposition and oxidation have been determined using Temperature-Programmed Reaction Spectroscopy. The structures of intermediates present during oxidation or decomposition have been identified using Fluorescence Yield Near-Edge Spectroscopy. Comparisons will be made to the chemistry on the Pt(111) surface in an effort to show the effects of particle size and of the support. Substantial substituent effects on the chemistry of the aromatic ring are also observed. This molecular-level understanding of these reactions will aid in tailoring catalysts for the efficient cleanup of industrial emissions.