Hydroxylated surface of GaAs as a scaffold for a heterogeneous Pd catalyst

Abstract

A novel use of GaAs, namely, as a scaffold for a heterogeneous palladium catalyst, is proposed. Hydroxy groups on the GaAs surface play important roles. During the adsorption of Pd(OAc)₂ on the GaAs surface, the hydroxy groups attract Pd(II) species by anion exchange. A subsequent redox reaction proceeds to generate Pd(0) nanoparticles, which are stabilized on the GaAs surface. This process is confirmed by surface-sensitive measurements: diffuse reflection IR spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Moreover, a more bulk-sensitive measurement, hard X-ray photoemission spectroscopy with synchrotron radiation, also supported our considerations. The amounts of Pd(0) nanoparticles on the surface were evaluated by catalytic activity, yield, and recyclability in the Heck reaction, in addition to the deposit test.