Computational modelling of polyoxometalates adsorbed on metallic surfaces

Identifier:  TDX:1269

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TDX1269

Authors:  Aparicio Anglès, Xavier

Abstract:
This Thesis is devoted to model the adsorption of Polyoxometalates (POMs) on metallic surfaces. From the structural determination of these composite materials, we propose different models in which the combination of both quantum and classical methodologies, we intent to describe the adsorption of [α-SiW12O40]4- on silver surfaces. Adsorption mode and structural parameters are successfully reproduced, and the spectroscopic data as well. In order to correctly describe the electronic structure, it is compulsory to include explicit water molecules (water) and counterions (K+ and Cs+) in the model. After including the environment, it is possible to reproduce the spontaneous reduction of the POM. Using this strategy a comparative study of metal and charge effects in the adsorption is done. For high charged systems becomes necessary to finally optimise the structure considering the environment for a better description of the adsorption. The latest part of the Thesis is dedicated to the adsorption on gold nanoparticles.