A Fourier-transform infrared spectrometer is acquired to support research in engineering. The instrument is to be used in conjunction with existing ultrahigh-vacuum systems for infrared reflection-absorption spectroscopy (IRAS). Initially, it is used to study adsorbates on well-defined, single-crystal, metal-oxide surfaces and to probe the local site requirements for adsorption and catalytic reactions on such surfaces. Specific systems under investigation include simple molecules on cuprous oxide, and a variety of oxidations over cuprous oxide, stannic oxide, and chromous oxide. Potential applications from these efforts exist in commodity chemicals, specialty chemicals, electronic materials, and pollution control.
