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Date Permissions Signed

7-27-2015

Date of Award

Summer 2015

Document Type

Masters Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Chemistry

First Advisor

Rider, David A. (Materials scientist)

Second Advisor

Bussell, Mark E.

Third Advisor

Gilbertson, John D.

Abstract

Synthetic methodologies that allow for intentionally designed structures PtxM100-x with a specified size, composition, and inter-particle spacing are key to advancing the field of energy-related catalysis. The synthesis of these catalytic nanostructures can be carried out using well-defined polymer frameworks that selectively retain catalyst precursors. Poly(vinylpyridine), (PVP) a polymer bearing pyridine residues is capable of metal-coordination or electrostatic association with metal anions in acidic media. In this work, we explore the synthesis of cross-linked PVP colloids and block copolymer templates capable of loading with catalyst precursors (ie: PtCl62-, AuCl4-, IrCl62-). PtxM100-x. Nanoparticles were produced in PVP frameworks by both photolytic and thermal reduction methods and were analyzed via atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning transmission electron microscopy-energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (STEM-EDS). Thermogravimetric infrared spectroscopy (TGA-FTIR) was used to investigate thermal and chemical properties of the materials. Elemental compositions were determined by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICPMS) and electrochemical measurements for electrocatalytic oxidation of alcohols were examined using cyclic voltammetry (CV). Bimetallic nanoparticles of platinum-iridium (PtxIr100-x) were synthesized on electrodes and analytical substrates via block copolymer templates for the activity of formic acid oxidation.

Type

Text

DOI

https://doi.org/10.25710/w5qm-6a94

Publisher

Western Washington University

OCLC Number

915140770

Subject – LCSH

Nanoparticles--Synthesis; Vinylpyridine; Nanostructures; Electrocatalysis; Platinum

Format

application/pdf

Genre/Form

masters theses

Language

English

Rights

Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this thesis for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author's written permission.

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