Download Switchable nanocatalysts: using ferroelectric oxides to control surface catalysis

Switchable nanocatalysts: using ferroelectric oxides to control surface catalysis
Andrew M. Rappe
The Makineni Theoretical Laboratories
Department of Chemistry
Department of Materials Science and Engineering
University of Pennsylvania
Supported catalysts are crucial to modern chemical industry. Reaction rates and
product distributions are controlled by the choice of catalyst, support, and promoters.
After fabrication however, control of the catalyst reactivity is decidedly limited.
In this talk, I will describe the properties of ferroelectric oxides, and their
potential use in switchable nanocatalysts. The bulk and surface properties of
ferroelectrics will be illustrated, highlighting their response to surface chemisorption and
external electric fields. A model system will be described in which the catalytic activity
of a supported metal can be rapidly and reversibly changed through the application of a
transient voltage pulse to the substrate.