Direct observation of H2 binding to a metal oxide surface.
Inelastic neutron scattering is used to probe the dynamical response of H2 films adsorbed on MgO(100) as a function of film thickness. Concomitant diffraction measurements and a reduced-dimensionality quantum dynamical model provide insight into the molecule-surface interaction potential. At monolayer thickness, the rotational motion is strongly influenced by the surface, so that the molecules behave like quasiplanar rotors. These findings have a direct impact on understanding how molecular hydrogen binds to the surface of materials used in catalytic and storage applications.
Larese
J Z
JZ
Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, USA. jzl@utk.edu
Arnold
T
T
Frazier
L
L
Hinde
R J
RJ
Ramirez-Cuesta
A J
AJ