Using Ion-beam Sputtering to modify Heterogeneous Nanodispersed Catalysts

Ion beam engineering is one technique which is used for the development of such technically advanced materials. This work shows how ion beam sputtering can be used to controllably modify the surface of solid heterogeneous catalysts. By strategically manipulating the surface nanostructure of the materials, their catalytic performance and resistance to aging can be enhanced. This can also reduce the noble metal substitution on the catalysts oxide support. The technique has been investigated using a Pt/Ce0.5Zr0.5O2 catalyst; a conventional emission control catalyst used on mobile combustion engines. 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.