Single-Complex, Single-Molecule, Single-Atom and Single-Site Studies of Chemical Events on Reactive Surfaces

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This research program is focused on the study of surfaces that are used to accelerate chemical processes. These surfaces are called heterogeneous catalysts. Their study is challenging area for several reasons. First, a surface is a two-dimensional system where almost all of the important chemical events occur only when the molecules make direct contact with the surface. As a result, the study of chemistry on surfaces requires very sensitive instruments. Second, chemical processes are often only accelerated at certain sites on the surface, so-called active sites. Third, if the surface binds any of the participants in the reaction sequence too strongly, it will clog up and the reaction will stop turning over. In this research program, we will primarily use scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) to study individual reactant molecules, or couples of molecules, at individual sites on precisely defined reactive surfaces. The STM technique can directly image conducting surfaces with atomic or sub-molecular resolution. There are three sub-projects: (1) A study of single-atom alloys (SAA), composed of atoms of a very reactive metal isolated on a relatively inert metal surface. These types of surfaces may achieve two objectives. They might limit the amount of precious metals needed to catalyze reactions. Also, they may prevent the surface from binding reactants or intermediates too strongly; (2) The study of enantioselective chemistry on surfaces. This in an area in which our group a currently doing leading work. During the last granting period (2011-2016), we carried out the definitive body of work on surface phenomena related to enantioselective hydrogenation on platinum. We are now proposing to move to the study of enantioselective CC coupling reactions on metal surfaces. Progress in this area, the synthesis of chiral products, is important for many reasons. Principally, the interaction of chemicals (for example, medicines) with our bodies depends sensitively on the chirality of the chemical. From the perspective of fundamental research in catalysis, the study provides remarkable insight on the use of weak intermolecular interactions to achieve reaction selectivity. (3) The study of two-dimensional metal carbides. We are experts in the surface study of conventional metal carbides. Recently, there has been an explosion of interest in the synthesis and application of 2D carbides. However, almost nothing is known about their surface chemistry-apart from the understanding that the surface termination has a profound affect on the material's properties. We are launching a systematic study of the surface chemistry of 2D carbides. HQP will directly perform all of the experimental surface science measurements in all of the projects. They will graduate with the skill of being completely at ease with complex instrumentation, and with fundamental expertise in the myriad applications of surfaces and interfaces.