Structure and Operando Catalysis of Silica SBA-15 Supported Molybdenum Oxide Catalysts

Using IR-, UV/Vis-, X-ray absorption spectroscopy shows that dispersed molybdena is present on silica as monomeric and di- or oligomeric species in hydrated and dehydrated state. Furthermore, in situ/operando Raman spectroscopy shows under reactive and non-reactive conditions that dispersed molybdena consists of monooxo and dioxo species in agreement with theory.