PETER C. STAIR RESEARCH GROUP
The Stair group focuses on the development and use of Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) for the synthesis of stable and selective catalysts. In our group, we use our ALD reactors to develop new growth methods and synthesize catalysts. We use Raman spectroscopy to do in-situ characterization of hydrocarbon formation on catalyst surfaces, to better target and prevent coke formation. In conjunction with our low-pressure ALD reactors, we are also studying ALD growth processes in ultra-high vacuum (UHV) conditions. Testing of catalysts synthesized by ALD is done in the Northwestern Clean Catalysis Facility, using a multiline Altamira system. We collaborate extensively with members of the Institute for Catalysis in Energy Processes (ICEP), the Institute for Atom-efficient Chemical Transformations (IACT), Argonne, and Northwestern University.