Planar Models for Alumina-Based Catalysts

Planar transition aluminas are gaining attention as models for alumina-based catalysts [I] because of their attractiveness for study by modern surface analytical techniques [2], electron optical methods [3], and reflection spectroscopy [4–7]. In this context “planar” means a thin (<10–4 cm) flat oxide layer of uniform thickness. Conventional high surface area aluminas which are used commercially for adsorbents, catalysts, and catalyst supports usually require grinding and /or pressing into disks for characterization by these approaches. This can expose unwanted inner structures or expose the samples to potential contamination by the grinding and pressing tools or uncontrolled atmospheres. In addition, difficulties arise in attempting to study the various stages of alumina development involved with commercial methods since these entail sols, gels, powdered hydroxides, and other inconvenient structures.