Thermal and Photo-Assisted Reactions on Metal Oxide Particles

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This research project, supported in the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program, extends Professor Grassian's earlier research work on surface photochemistry into the field of oxide surfaces. During the tenure of this three-year continuing grant, thermal and photo-driven chemistry on oxide surfaces will be examined using techniques ranging from infrared and optical spectroscopy on high surface area powders to electron spectroscopic studies of single crystal samples. The interaction of nitrous oxide with zirconia surfaces forms one focus of the project. The interaction of small molecules of atmospheric importance with model mineral aerosol surfaces will also be explored. Results of these basic studies will be of interest in developing an understanding of catalytic and environmental processes occurring on oxide surfaces. Light-driven surface reactions are of interest in a variety of technical applications. For example, the reaction of nitrous oxide on zirconia surfaces may be of importance in the environmentally benign synthesis of synthetic fiber precursors. The basic research supported in this project addresses the detailed mechanisms of surface photochemical reactions such as this one. In addition, small molecule reactions on model mineral aerosol surfaces will be examined, with possible application in our developing understanding of tropospheric mechanisms of air pollution generation.