Manipulating Surface Chemistry Via the Ferroelectric Effect

Yale University, New Haven CT

Investigators

Abstract

Abstract CHE-0413050 Altman/Yale Professor Altman and his colleagues at Yale University, with the support of the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program, are studying the surface chemistry of ferroelectric oxides. In particular, they are investigating the effect of poling direction on the surface chemistry, using an array of electron spectroscopic and scanned probe microscopy techniques. Acid-base chemistry on LiNbO3 and CO oxidation on BaTiO3 supported gold nanoparticles or RuO2 epitaxial layers are being examined. The fundamental information obtained from these studies provides a basis for the design of externally controllable catalyst systems. External control of the reactivity or selectivity of a catalytic surface would have considerable impact on the design of catalytic reactor systems. The effect of poling direction on the subsequent chemistry of ferroelectric oxide surfaces is a possible route to establishing this sort of control. With the support of the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program, Professor Altman and his colleagues at Yale are examining these interesting effects, using surface electron spectroscopy and scanning probe microscopy methods.