Operando single-atom tracking in individual Pt nanoparticles detects the coexistence of Langmuir and Taylor active sites
Authors: K. Jenkinson, T. Stoops, A. De Backer, E. Arslan Irmak, A. Pedrazo-Tardajos, N. Claes, T. Altantzis, A. Sánchez-Iglesias, L. M. Liz-Marzán, S. Van Aert, B. M. Weckhuysen, S. Bals
Journal: Nature Catalysis
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41929-026-01612-w
Abstract
The development of next-generation catalysts strongly depends on structure–composition–performance relationships, yet the underlying fundamental concepts, even for textbook processes such as the platinum-catalysed oxidation of carbon monoxide, are based on assumptions due to the limitations of analytical techniques. Despite extensive studies, key aspects of this exemplary reaction remain unresolved, and identifying active sites in nanoparticle-based catalysts under actual reaction conditions remains a central challenge. Here, using quantitative atomic-resolution three-dimensional operando transmission electron microscopy, we track atom-level structural transformations in individual Pt nanoparticles during a series of activation/deactivation/reactivation cycles. We thereby establish an experimental link between the abundance of coordinatively unsaturated surface atoms and catalytic performance. Our results indicate that Taylor- and Langmuir-like active sites coexist and interchange within the same realistic catalyst. More broadly, this approach enables quantitative tracking of facets and undercoordinated atoms in catalytic nanoparticles, opening opportunities to experimentally investigate the role of active sites in catalysis.
