TPR-XAFS Study for Hydrogen Recombination Reaction of Platinum Metal Nanoparticle Catalysts

Proper management of hydrogen gas is very important for safety of nuclear power plants. Hydrogen removal system by hydrogen recombination reaction (water formation reaction) on a catalyst is one of the candidates for avoiding hydrogen explosion. We have observed in situ and time-resolved structure change of platinum metal nanoparticle catalyst during hydrogen recombination reaction by using simultaneous measurement of temperature-programmed reaction and X-ray absorption fine structure (TPR-XAFS). A poisoning effect by carbon monoxide on catalytic activity was focused. It was found that the start of hydrogen recombination reaction is closely connected with the occurrence of the decomposition of adsorbed carbon monoxide molecules and creation of surface oxide layer on platinum metal nanoparticles.