Metal species with different size (single atoms, nanoclusters, and nanoparticles) show different catalytic behavior for various heterogeneous catalytic reactions. It has been shown in the literature that many factors including the particle size, shape, chemical composition, metal–support interaction, and metal–reactant/solvent interaction can have significant influences on the catalytic properties of metal catalysts. The recent developments of well-controlled synthesis methodologies and advanced characterization tools allow one to correlate the relationships at the molecular level. In this Review, the electronic and geometric structures of single atoms, nanoclusters, and nanoparticles will be discussed. Furthermore, we will summarize the catalytic applications of single atoms, nanoclusters, and nanoparticles for different types of reactions, including CO oxidation, selective oxidation, selective hydrogenation, organic reactions, electrocatalytic, and photocatalytic reactions. We will compare the results o...

Metal Catalysts for Heterogeneous Catalysis: From Single Atoms to Nanoclusters and Nanoparticles.

Advances in the development of novel cobalt Fischer-Tropsch catalysts for synthesis of long-chain hydrocarbons and clean fuels.

Surface science studies of model fuel cell electrocatalysts

Ultrathin metal films and particles on oxide surfaces: structural, electronic and chemisorptive properties

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), established as a relatively new class of crystalline porous materials with high surface area, structural diversity, and tailorability, attract extensive interest and exhibit a variety of applications, especially in catalysis. Their permanent porosity enables their inherent superiority in confining guest species, particularly small metal nanoparticles (MNPs), for improved catalytic performance and/or the expansion of reaction scope. This is a rapidly developing interdisciplinary research field. In this review, we provide an overview of significant progress in the development of MNP/MOF composites, including various preparation strategies and characterization methods as well as catalytic applications. Special emphasis is placed on synergistic effects between the two components that result in an enhanced performance in heterogeneous catalysis. Finally, the prospects of MNP/MOF composites in catalysis and remaining issues in this field have been indicated.

Metal–organic frameworks meet metal nanoparticles: synergistic effect for enhanced catalysis

Variations of the rotational energy distributions of NO molecules scattered at a Pt(111) surface have been determined by means of laser-induced fluorescence. Scattering of a rotationally cold (32 K) supersonic molecular beam at a NO-covered surface results in full rotational accommodation due to trapping/desorption. No Boltzmann distribution of the rotational energies is observed if the molecules are directly (specularly) scattered at a graphitic overlayer.

Rotationally inelastic gas-surface scattering investigated by laser-induced fluorescence

An overview of current research at Shell in the area of Fischer–Tropsch technology is given covering the full range from a detailed understanding at the atomic level right up to the commercial process. Studies of model catalysts under Fischer–Tropsch reaction conditions are reviewed, which have yielded new information on the nature of the active site. A recently developed kinetic network is described which couples these model catalyst studies to the macroscopic world of ‘real catalysts’. Finally, the advantages and disadvantages of various suitable reactor types will be discussed, with the emphasis placed on a comparison between multitubular fixed bed and slurry type reactors.

H.P.C.E. Kuipers

Papers

Rotationally inelastic gas-surface scattering investigated by laser-induced fluorescence

Fischer–Tropsch technology — from active site to commercial process

In situ observation of silicalite nucleation and growth: A light-scattering study

A molecular-beam investigation of the scattering, adsorption and absorption of H2 and D2 from/on/in Pd(111)

A molecular-beam investigation of the reaction H2 + 12O2 → H2O on Pd(111)