Structure and reactivity of model oxides related to automobile exhaust catalysis

Grillo, Federico. 2007. Structure and reactivity of model oxides related to automobile exhaust catalysis. PhD Thesis, Cardiff University.

PDF - Accepted Post-Print Version Download (52MB)

Abstract

In this thesis, different ceria and barium oxide based model systems, related to automobile exhaust catalysis, are studied, with the aim of characterizing their structure and reactivity. Chapter 1 is an introduction to the relevance of surface science studies and its cross links with heterogeneous catalysis. The knowledge of a process at atomic scale, which can ultimately be achieved through surface science, can help to improve the design and performance of a material. A description of the techniques used is presented in Chapter 2. The studies of ceria based systems are described in Chapter 3. An introduction to the ceria and oxygen storage capacity (OSC) in ceria containing materials is given. Oxygen adsorption investigations on a CeO2(111) single crystal are presented in the second part. Finally, the preparation and characterisation of CeO2-X layers on a Cu(111) single crystal and, how preparation conditions dictate the ceria overlayer structure and oxidation state, is presented. Chapter 4 concerns the study of oxidised barium layers related to NSR (NOx Storage and Reduction). This involves the preparation of BaOx layers on a Pt(111) single crystal and BaO(100) layers on a Cu(111) single crystal. These layers were exposed to both in situ mixed NO and O2 gases and premixed NO and O2 gases. In the case of BaO(100)/Cu(111), during the latter experiments, nitrite groups could be observed to form on the surface. The preparation of NSR model systems Pt/BaO*/a-Al2O 3(0001) and BaO*/Pt/ct-Al2O3(0001) using traditional, wet chemistry, methods is described in Chapter 5. The model systems were characterised using XPS and air AFM. Finally, the same techniques were used to evaluate NOx storage capabilities of those model systems. Chapter 6 summarises the conclusions.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Chemistry
Subjects:	Q Science > QD Chemistry
ISBN:	9781303208584
Funders:	European Union
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	30 March 2016
Last Modified:	12 Feb 2016 23:15
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/56181

Actions (repository staff only)

Edit Item