Understanding CeO2-Supported Nanostructures: In Situ / Operando Studies of Model Catalysts (GAČR)

In this project, we propose to use the unique combination of two such state-of-the-art experimental techniques: near-ambient-pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (NAP-XPS) and near-ambient-pressure scanning probe microscopy (NAP-SPM) to probe four industrially important catalytic reactions in operando conditions (CO oxidation, water-gas shift, methane decomposition and steam reforming). Cerium oxide supported Pt and Au nanoclusters will serve as the model systems that will be studied before, after, but also directly during the catalytic reactions. Results of the experiments and the associated first-principle simulations should provide a better insight into the complex reaction mechanisms that take a place in the real catalytic systems.