Using Ion-beam Sputtering to modify Heterogeneous Nanodispersed Catalysts

Interface science is at the center of the development of new materials for interesting technically materials. Ion beam engineering is one technique which is used for the development of such materials[1]. The work carried out in this project shows that ion beam sputtering can be used as a technique for the controlled surface modification of solid heterogeneous catalysts. The surface nanostructure of these materials can be strategically manipulated to enhance their catalytic performance and resistance to aging. Through doing so this can also reduce the noble metal substitution on the catalysts oxide support[2]. The technique has been investigated using a Pt/Ce0.7Zr0.3O2 catalyst which is a conventional emission control catalyst used mobile combustion engines[3][4]. The technique has been studied by changing different parameters of the ion beam to understand how they independently effect the catalyst. Modeling of the treatment has also been introduced to the describe erosion of the surface through ion sputtering, and how this is influenced by the type of ion used, the number of doses and the current of the ion beam.