Nickel Phosphide Nanoparticles for Catalysis Stephanie L. Brock, Wayne State University, DMR 0094213

1. Nickel Phosphide Nanoparticles for Catalysis Stephanie L. Brock, Wayne State University, DMR 0094213 Recent NSF-supported work accepted for publication in Advanced Functional Materials describes how to prepare nearly monodisperse, spherical nanoparticles of Ni2P and the modification of the particle surface to enhance hydrodesulfurization (HDS) activity. The removal of sulfur containing compounds from fuel by the process of HDS is a key step in decreasing sulfur emissions from vehicles. Supported Ni2P is a promising next generation HDS catalyst, but existing methods of preparing the material do not allow for control of particle size, shape and surface functionality, despite the fact that these factors will be key in maximizing activity. Our results (conducted in collaboration with Mark Bussell, Western Washington University, see Figure) show that activity towards hydrodesulfurization of thiophene and the phase stability of solution-prepared Ni2P nanoparticles is a sensitive function of the surface chemistry. In all cases, the Ni2P nanoparticles are more active than bulk materials.

2. Nickel Phosphide Nanoparticles for Catalysis Stephanie L. Brock, Wayne State University, DMR 0094213 Introducing Nanomaterials to Undergrads: Getting students involved in Nanochemistry early in their studies is important for the development of this new interdisciplinary science, but is not addressed in traditional Chemistry curricula. Over the course of the CAREER proposal, three new laboratories and several lecture segments focused on nanomaterials have been integrated into the undergraduate inorganic courses at Wayne State. Additionally, a dozen undergraduate students have participated in original research projects in the Brock lab. In the process, these students have acquired hands-on experience with state of the art instrumentation, including X-ray powder diffraction, and electron and atomic force microscopes. Lance Aquilina, an undergraduate researcher shows off a poster on his work. His research (conducted in the Summer of 2007 and continuing) involves preparing and characterizing nanoparticles of Ni5P4 to assess activity for hydrodesulfurization of thiophene