Abstract
We propose the use of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) as a distinctive marker for real-time monitoring in reaction conditions of gold nanoparticles supported on α-Al(2)O(3). The study leverages the SPR shape-and-size dependency to monitor metal nanoparticles in reaction conditions, evidencing an influence of both dimensions and agglomerations on the SPR peak position. Operando measurements, coupling UV-vis spectroscopy and catalytic testing, allows to follow the dynamics during nanoparticle formation (Au(3+) to Au(0) reduction) and during the reverse water gas shift reaction (CO(2) + H(2) → CO + H(2)O). The catalyst structure and stability in reaction conditions was further confirmed by operando X-ray spectroscopy and PXRD data. Overall, this approach enables the direct acquisition of information on the structure-activity relationship of metal-based supported catalysts under actual reaction conditions.