PNNL

Abstract

Single-atom Pt 1 /CeO 2 catalyst by atom trapping (AT, 800 o C in air) shows excellent thermal stability, however, it is inactive for CO oxidation at low temperatures due to over-stabilization of Pt 2+ in a highly symmetric square-planar Pt 1 O 4 coordination. Reductive activation forming Pt nanoparticles (NPs) results in enhanced activity, however, NPs are easily oxidized leading to drastic activity loss. Here we show that tailoring the local environment of isolated Pt 2+ via thermal-shock (TS) synthesis leads to a highly active and thermally stable Pt 1 /CeO 2 catalyst. Ultrafast shockwaves (> 1200 o C) in an inert atmosphere induce surface reconstruction of CeO 2 , generating Pt single atoms in an asymmetric Pt 1 O 4 configuration. Originating from this unique coordination, Pt 1 d+ in a partially reduced state dynamically evolved during CO oxidation, resulting in an exceptional low-temperature performance. The CO oxidation reactivity on the Pt 1 /CeO 2 _TS catalyst is retained under oxidizing conditions.