Unique Structural Characteristics of Catalytic Palladium/Gold Nanoparticles on Graphene

• DOI: 10.1017/s1431927618016185
• Publication Date: 2019-01-30T12:07:47Z
• Authors: Kavita Meduri; Candice Stauffer; Graham O'Brien Jo...; Paolo Longo; Paul G. Tratnyek; Jun Jiao
• Keywords: Bimetal; Characterization

Abstract Adding Au to Pd nanoparticles (NPs) can impart high catalytic activity with respect hydrogenation of a wide range substances. These materials are often synthesized by reducing metallic precursors; hence, sonochemical and solvothermal processes commonly used anchor these bimetals onto thin supports, including graphene. Although similar NPs have been studied reasonably well, clear understanding structural characteristics relative their synthesis parameters is lacking, due limitations in characterization techniques, which may prevent optimization this very promising catalyst. In report, strategic approach has identify material correlation, starting controlled sample preparation followed detailed characterization. This includes advanced scanning transmission electron microscopy energy loss spectroscopy; the latter using state-of-the-art instrumentation map distribution Au, chemical state NPs, not previously reported. Results show that bimetal NP clusters were made small zero-valent aggregating form shell around an core. Not only described be applied systems, but results guide procedures.