Combining XAS and DRIFTS with Modulation Excitation to Elucidate Metal-Oxide Interactions

Recent research has highlighted the importance of metal-oxide interactions (MOI) in Ni-based catalysts used for CO2 utilization. Understanding these interactions is crucial, as they significantly influence catalytic performance. To explore MOI, we propose to study Ni catalysts with strategic deposition of ZrO2 and CeO2, using in-situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) combined with Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Fourier Transform Spectroscopy (DRIFTS). Modulation-excitation will be central to this study, distinguishing active species from spectators to detail the catalytic dynamics. This approach aims to reveal the fundamental mechanisms of MOI in CO2 methanation, paving the way to designing more effective catalysts.