Toward a Realistic Description of NOxStorage in BaO: The Aspect of BaCO3

Journal article, 2005

NOx storage over hexagonal BaCO3(110) is investigated using first-principles calculations. Special focus is put on the importance of surface decarbonation. Upon decarbonation, supported BaO quasi-molecules are formed and a small drive toward (BaO)(n) cluster formation is predicted. Introduction of NO2 makes the decarbonation energetically relevant, while forming NO2-BaO-NO2 units, on the decarbonated surface. With this configuration, it is possible to replace all surface carbonates with nitrites and nitrates, forming a BaCO3 supported BaNO3NO2 overlayer. Thermodynamic considerations are employed to elaborate on the thermal stability of the formed NOx overlayers.