Joris Koek
Raman spectroscopy is a powerful method for solid catalyst characterization under operando conditions. In recent years Shell isolated Raman spectroscopy (SHINERS) has attracted interest as it improves on SERS by isolating the measured substance from the SERS active nanoparticle through an ultrathin dielectric coating, such as SiO2 or Al2O3.
In this research spark ablation technology is used to deposit metal nanoparticles of various sizes and composition on Shell isolated nanoparticles (SHINs). These metal/SHINs substrates will be optimized for experiments on adsorption of probe molecules, such as NO and CO, and subsequently, catalytic reactions will be performed using this system. Allowing for the collection of Raman spectra of adsorbed species and possibly reaction intermediates. In this way, operando Raman spectroscopy will be performed on a catalyst in action.