FURI | Spring 2021

TEM Image Simulations of Structural Dynamics on CeO2-supported Pt Catalysts

In time-resolved series of TEM images taken of supported nanoclusters in gas environments, it is observed that the nanoparticles can undergo dynamic structural reconfigurations that give rise to unique contrast features in the image. The purpose of this project is to develop a methodology for understanding how structural dynamics might give rise to experimentally observed contrast features. TEM image simulations were performed on structure models based on experimental images under CO and O₂ gas environments. Simulated image combinations were studied to interpret experimental image contrast and to develop a framework for understanding dynamic structural reconfigurations that occur in supported nanoclusters.