TEM Image Simulations of Structural Dynamics on CeO2-supported Pt Catalysts
Supported catalytic nanoparticles undergo rapid structural transformations faster than many transmission electron microscopes (TEMs) can track. This is the case with platinum nanoparticles supported on cerium oxide (Pt/CeO2) in a CO and O2 gaseous environment. By furthering our understanding of the structural dynamics of the Pt/CeO2 system, improved catalyst design principles may be derived to enhance the efficiency of this catalyst. Developing static models of a 2 nm Pt nanoparticle supported on CeO2 and simulating TEM images of the models was found to create similar images to those seen in experimental TEM time-resolved series of the system. Rotations of static models on a ceria support provides a way to understand the experimental samples in three dimensions, which is difficult in two dimensional TEM images. This project expands the possibilities of interpreting TEM images of catalytic systems.
- Author (aut): Block, Claire
- Thesis director: Crozier, Peter
- Committee member: Muhich, Christopher
- Contributor (ctb): Materials Science and Engineering Program
- Contributor (ctb): Watts College of Public Service & Community Solut
- Contributor (ctb): Materials Science and Engineering Program
- Contributor (ctb): Barrett, The Honors College