X-ray scattering structural investigation of Pt and Pt-Sn catalysts supported on nylon

The physical properties of Pt and Pt-Sn/Nylon catalysts have been determined using X-ray scattering techniques (SAXS and WAXS). Two different structural conditions of Pt/Nylon were inferred from the characterization. A large amount of the supported metal phase, ca. 100 Å in size, retains the Pt crystalline structure and appears to be embedded in the Nylon. A second fraction with a strong metal-ligand interaction is also present. Addition of tin to the Pt/Nylon system does not change the observed structural framework, although a Pt-Sn solid solution appears with a decrease in the size of the metallic phase.