Fabrication of two- and three-dimensional model catalyst systems with monodispersed platinum nanoparticles as active metal building blocks

Well-defined Pt monodispersed nanoparticles within the catalytically relevant 1–10 nm size regime were synthesized in solution phase by several synthetic methods which differed in the choice of reducing agent, surface stabilizer, reaction temperature and solvent. Three-dimensional model catalysts were fabricated by incorporating the metal nanoparticles into ordered channels of high surface area mesoporous oxides such as SiO2, Al2O3 and Ta2O5 through either sonication or direct synthesis of the oxide support around the particles. Deposition of the same nanocrystals onto silica supports by means of the Langmuir–Schaeffer technique produced two-dimensional model catalysts.

Graphical abstractWell-defined Pt nanoparticles within the 1–10 nm size regime were synthesized in solution phase by using a variety of reaction conditions. 3D catalyst systems were fabricated by incorporating them into the ordered channels of high surface area mesoporous oxides such as SiO2, Al2O3 and Ta2O5. Applying the Langmuir–Schaeffer technique these nanocrystals were used to prepare 2D arrays on silica supports as well.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide