Contribution of shape resonance and Pt–H EXAFS in the Pt L2,3 X-ray absorption edges of supported Pt particles: Application and consequences for catalyst characterization

Abstract

The electronic and geometric effects induced by hydrogen chemisorption on small platinum particles supported on high surface-area saponite clay and zeolite LTL were studied by near edge X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) spectroscopy. A new subtraction procedure was developed to separate the electronic from geometric effects. A significant Pt–H extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) scattering (structural effect) was found for energy values between 0 and 20 eV. In addition, the Pt–H antibonding state (electronic effect) was found to produce a shape-resonance and was isolated from the near edge of the L₃ X-ray absorption spectrum. Moreover, for Pt/LTL the shape and energy of the shape-resonance was found to strongly depend on the acidity/alkalinity of the support material, implying a direct influence of the support on the electronic properties of the platinum particles. The results of the study of the resonance state and the Pt–H EXAFS scattering demonstrate the potential of these techniques for characterization of hydrogen chemisorption, metal-promoter, and metal-support effects in catalysis research.