Nanoparticle Catalysts for Catalytic Reaction Studies

Abstract

Industrial heterogeneous catalysts, composed of metal nanoparticles, have been widely utilized owing to their high surface to volume ratio. A nanoparticle with well-defined surfaces, prepared through colloidal chemistry, enables it to be studied as a model heterogeneous catalyst. Catalytic reaction studies have been conducted to study how size, shape, and composition of nanoparticles affect to change catalytic activity and selectivity. Using specific interactions between metal nanoparticles and oxide supports, catalytic performances can be changed as well. From this research, the best catalyst can be designed to produces only one desired product for 100% selectivity at high turnover rates to reduce the production of undesirable wastes. Furthermore, the knowledge getting from catalysis can be extended other fields including energy and environment.