LAUSR

Abstract Insitu FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) technique has been employed to study the oxidation of methanol on Platinum and Platinum - Ruthenium catalysts supported on HY zeolites [Pt-Ru (HY)/C]. The reaction has been studied by recording the spectra at different temperature ranges from room temperature till 170 °C. The catalytic activity has been studies in presence and absence of oxygen supply. The mechanism for oxidation of methanol has also been interpreted from the data obtained. The decomposition of methanol on Platinum (HY)/C catalyst occurs via carbonate/formate pathway in presence of oxygen and carbonate/carboxylate in absence of oxygen. The optimum efficiency of the Pt (HY) catalyst occurs at 120 °C. But on the surface of Pt- Ru (HY)/C catalyst, methanol oxidation occurs at room temperatures, thus emphasizing higher catalytic efficiency. The enhanced activity of the Platinum–Ruthenium/HY has been explained on the basis of intermediates formed during the reaction. .