Bimetallic cobalt-platinum (CoPt) nanoparticles are drawing attention in many areas of catalysis as scientists tackle the quest to reduce precious metal content while maintaining optimum catalytic selectivity and reactivity. Researchers explored the role of Pt in Co reducing and oxidizing, and found that the catalytic properties of monometallic and bimetallic nanoparticles of Co are closely related to the oxidation state of Co. Read more »
ALS Work Using XANES
X-ray absorption near-edge structure (XANES) spectroscopy is form of x-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) that reveals the structures of molecules bonded to surfaces. It focuses on prominent features in the "near-edge" region of a spectrum (about 30 eV above the K-shell absorption edge). This "fine structure" can be correlated with specific molecular bond types, lengths, and orientations. XANES, also known as near-edge x-ray absorption fine-structure (NEXAFS) spectroscopy, is often performed as part of a STXM experiment.
Chloride Depletion in Aged Sea Salt Particles
Elemental and chemical imaging analyses showed that sea salt particles react with water-soluble organic acids in the atmosphere through a unique mechanism which had been overlooked in atmospheric chemistry. The reactions release volatile hydrogen chloride into the atmosphere and leave behind sea salt particles drained of chloride.
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Two Electron Holes in Hematite Facilitate Water Splitting
Hematite is a promising electrode material for solar-powered water splitting—an important reqirement for producing hydrogen fuel with zero emissions. At Beamline 7.0.1, researchers have gained a better understanding of hematite’s electronic structure through soft x-ray spectroscopy performed in situ and “operando.” Read more »
Crosslink Density of Superabsorbent Polymers
Researchers from The Dow Chemical Company teamed with academic colleagues to conduct x-ray spectromicroscopy studies of superabsorbent polymers (SAPs), materials with a wide range of applications, including disposable baby diapers. Dow has been able to use the results to help develop the process technology for a new SAP-manufacturing plant. Read more »