The surface of transitional aluminas: A critical review

• The data on the physicochemical properties of transitional aluminas are reviewed critically.
• Structural models of gamma alumina are discussed.
• Original experimental data are reported on the chemistry of surface hydroxyls.
• The nature of Lewis acid sites is discussed.
• Suggestions are made for further investigations.

The data reported in the literature concerning the structure, the morphology and porosity, the physicochemical properties and the surface properties of transitional aluminas are reviewed critically. Original experimental data are reported to discuss the nature and assignment of the OH stretching bands associated to surface hydroxyl groups and the nature of the surface acidity and basicity. Suggestions are made for further investigations.

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