Metal precursor-support interactions: an in-situ diffuse UV reflectance study

The application of ultraviolet and visible spectroscopy to the study of oxides and other non-metallic solids of catalytic interest has been much neglected. In this study, an in-situ investigation of Pt-silica catalysts was carried out using UV spectroscopy as the primary tool to study support-precursor interactions. It is also possible to follow the catalyst treatment process in an effort to identify possible surface intermediates. In order to effectively examine these interactions the conventional solution spectroscopy is used in conjunction with diffuse UV spectroscopy.