FTIR investigation into transition metal disilicides as catalysts for tert-butyl hydroperoxide decomposition

Abstract

Disilicides of molybdenum, tungsten, tantalum, and titanium were studied using FTIR spectroscopy to establish the origin of their different catalytic activities in the decomposition of tert-butyl hydroperoxide. The FTIR spectra of the metal disilicides before and after the decomposition reaction show that their different catalytic activities are caused not only by the nature of the transition metal, but also by different abilities of their surfaces to adsorb water. The increase in the catalyst's ability to adsorb water leads to a decrease in catalyst activity.