Understanding the Direct Synthesis on promoted Cu/Si alloy surfaces

Rutgers University New Brunswick, New Brunswick NJ

Investigators

Abstract

Abstract CHE-0517017 Hinch/Rutgers This GOALI project addresses the detailed mechanism of the direct catalytic synthesis of silicones. With the support of the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program, Professor Hinch and her colleagues at Rutgers, and Professor Strongin and his colleagues at Temple, are working with collaborators at Dow Corning to examine the detailed mechanism and kinetics of the Rochow process for the direct synthesis of silicones. Ultra high vacuum surface spectroscopy is used to characterize model single crystal silicon on copper and copper on silicon catalysts, and model catalysts promoted with additives such as Sn and Zn. In situ studies of promoted commercial catalysts used by Dow Corning are also carried out. Information from these fundamental studies will provide crucial understanding of this commercially important technology. With the support of the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program, Professor Hinch at Rutgers and Professor Strongin at Temple and their collaborators at Dow Corning are examining the detailed mechanism and kinetics of the direct synthesis of silicones. Both model catalyst systems and real working catalysts are being examined. Fundamental insights into the mechanism of this important commercial process will be obtained in this work.