Isomerization of n-Hexane Catalyzed by Supported Monodisperse PtRh Bimetallic Nanoparticles

Composition and size of Pt x Rh1-x bimetallic nanoparticles were varied in order to study the effects in the catalytic reforming of n-hexane. Hexane isomerization, an analogue to the important industrial process of hydrocarbon reforming is a reaction in which we aim to investigate the molecular level details of catalysis. It is known, that in hydrocarbon isomerization, Pt atoms act to isomerize the reactants, while small amounts of "promoter metal" atoms (such as Rh, Ir, Re and Sn) provide C-C and C-H bond breaking activity. Herein, we report on the effect of composition and size in model bimetallic Pt x Rh1-x nanoparticle catalysts utilized in n-hexane reforming. Both nanoparticle composition and size were shown to influence catalytic turnover frequency and product selectivity. It was found, through ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, that the surface of these nanoparticles is both dynamic, and Rh rich under relevant reaction conditions. The findings suggest that an ensemble effect exists, in which the highest isomer production occurs when Rh atoms are surrounded by Pt atoms on the metal surface. Graphical Abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.] © 2013 Springer Science+Business Media New York.close7