Single Nanoparticle Catalysis
Nanoparticles are important catalysts in many chemical transformations. However, owing to their structural dispersions, heterogeneous distribution of surface active sites, and surface restructuring dynamics, nanoparticles are intrinsically heterogeneous and challenging to characterize in ensemble ensemble measurements. Our group has recently developed a single-molecule fluorescence approach to study nanoparticle catalysis at the single-nanoparticle and single-turnover resolution (Figure). By following catalytic reactions of a single gold nanoparticle in real time one reaction at time, we discover rich information about how catalysis, heterogeneous reactivity, and surface restructuring dynamics interplay in nanocatalysis. See our papers for details.
See some press highlights of this research:
- Chemical & Engineering News "Scrutinizing Catalysts" by Mitch Jacoby, November 17, 2008, 86(46), 9.
- National Science Foundation Press release "When A Good Nanoparticle Goes Bad". Also featured by First Science News, Bio-Medicine, WebWire, ScientistLive.
- News highlight on Cornell Chronicle: "New method can capture catalysis, one molecule at a time," by Bill Steele. Also featured by Science Daily, Photonics World, PhysOrg, Nanotechnology, Science News Daily, R&D Magazine, Nanowerk.
- News highlight by Cornell Center for Materials Research: "When a Good Nanoparticle Goes Bad."
Figure. Schematic of single-nanoparticle catalysis at single-turnover resolution.