Insights in the mechanism of deposition and growth of RuO2 colloidal nanoparticles over alumina. Implications on the activity for ammonia synthesis

- RuO2 colloids deposition can lead to large size distribution of Ru-supported particles.
- Firstly attached RuO2 particles act as nucleation points for further RuO2 deposition.
- Particle growth results from the sequential deposition of RuO2 on a changing surface.
- Larger RuO2 clusters are preferentially formed at the outer surface of alumina.
- Poly-sized Ru-supported nanoparticles exhibit catalytic cooperation in NH3 synthesis.