INSITU FT-IR SPECTROSCOPY OF THE ADSORPTION OF CO ON METHANOL CATALYSTS

Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to identify surface species on zinc oxide and a zinc-copper mixed oxide at CO pressures up to 50 atm and a temperature of 200 degree C. In situ spectra were recorded in a high-pressure cell having a short path length. Spectra of adsorbed species on both oxides indicated the presence of carbonate, carboxylate, hydride, hydroxide, and formate surface species. The spectrum of the mixed oxide at 50 atm had additional bands which were assigned to a methoxide surface species.