On the formation of surface gallium hydride species in supported gallium catalysts

► Molecular hydrogen is dissociatively adsorbed on Ga3+ surface sites of supported gallium catalysts. ► The amount of hydrogen absorbed by the catalysts depend on the nature of the support. ► GaH vibration frequencies are sensitive to the nature of the support. ► The surface sites active in the dissociation of hydrogen are Ga3+ cations bonded to the support surface.