Roadmap for Modeling RhPt/Pt(111) Catalytic Surfaces

PtRh alloys are used as versatile multipurpose catalysts for a number of industrial applications, including fertilizer production and ammonia slip catalysts for NOx abatement purposes. For the latter, ammonia is oxidized to nitrogen at intermediate temperatures. To optimize the PtRh-alloyed catalysts and explain the role of Pt and Rh for future intermediate-temperature ammonia oxidation operando studies, we prepared a series of distinct RhPt model surfaces. We explore postannealing and high-temperature deposition as two routes for preparation of surface alloys and compare results with literature examples. Scanning tunneling microscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy provide detailed information on surface morphology and composition and demonstrate excellent temperature stability of RhPt/Pt(111) in the temperature range targeted for operando catalytic studies. A detailed roadmap summarizes preparation conditions to achieve a broad variety of surface structures.Catalysis and Surface Chemistr

National identity predicts public health support during a global pandemic

Understanding collective behaviour is an important aspect of managing the pandemic response. Here the authors show in a large global study that participants that reported identifying more strongly with their nation reported greater engagement in public health behaviours and support for public health policies in the context of the pandemic.Changing collective behaviour and supporting non-pharmaceutical interventions is an important component in mitigating virus transmission during a pandemic. In a large international collaboration (Study 1, N = 49,968 across 67 countries), we investigated self-reported factors associated with public health behaviours (e.g., spatial distancing and stricter hygiene) and endorsed public policy interventions (e.g., closing bars and restaurants) during the early stage of the COVID-19 pandemic (April-May 2020). Respondents who reported identifying more strongly with their nation consistently reported greater engagement in public health behaviours and support for public health policies. Results were similar for representative and non-representative national samples. Study 2 (N = 42 countries) conceptually replicated the central finding using aggregate indices of national identity (obtained using the World Values Survey) and a measure of actual behaviour change during the pandemic (obtained from Google mobility reports). Higher levels of national identification prior to the pandemic predicted lower mobility during the early stage of the pandemic (r = -0.40). We discuss the potential implications of links between national identity, leadership, and public health for managing COVID-19 and future pandemics