Why is Area under Desorption Curve (TPD) the total particles desorbed?

In summary, the desorption rate (molecules/cm2/sec) is plotted against temperature (deg C) in TPD graphs because temperature is actually a factor of time. The curve is dependent on the time spent at each previous temperature step, which explains why the integration result is not what one would expect. Considering the graph as desorption rate against time (s) instead would make this clearer. Additionally, the choice of adsorptive is an important factor in physisorption experiments, and more information on this can be found in the article provided.
  • #1
nyxynyx
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I'm currently reading about Temperature Programmed Desorption (TPD) and is wondering why in the graph of desorption rate (molecules/cm2/sec) against temperature (deg C), the area under the curve is the total number of particles desorbed? Isnt the units (molecules/cm/sec/degC) if u integrate the curve?
 
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  • #2
I think you’ll find it’s because although it is plotted against temperature, the temperature is really a factor of time. The desorption rate isn’t constant at each temperature, and the curve is dependent on the time spent at each previous temperature step.

So if you think of the graph as desorption rate against time (s) instead, then it become clear why the integration result isn’t what you expect.

I hope that helps. Also, here is an article on choice of adsorptive which you may find interesting:
http://www.quantachrome.co.uk/en/Adsorptives_for_Physisorption_Experiments.asp
 

FAQ: Why is Area under Desorption Curve (TPD) the total particles desorbed?

What is the significance of the Area under Desorption Curve (TPD)?

The Area under Desorption Curve, or TPD, is a measure of the total number of particles that are desorbed from a surface during a thermal desorption process. This value is important because it provides information about the surface coverage and adsorption strength of the particles on the surface.

How is the Area under Desorption Curve (TPD) calculated?

The Area under Desorption Curve is calculated by integrating the desorption curve, which plots the amount of desorbed particles as a function of temperature. This integration gives the total area under the curve, which represents the total number of particles desorbed.

3. Why is the Area under Desorption Curve (TPD) considered a more accurate measure than peak height?

The Area under Desorption Curve takes into account the entire desorption process, including both low and high temperature desorption. Peak height, on the other hand, only reflects the maximum amount of particles desorbed at a specific temperature. The TPD value is therefore considered a more accurate measure of the total number of desorbed particles.

4. Can the Area under Desorption Curve (TPD) be used to determine the desorption energy of particles?

Yes, the TPD value can be used to calculate the desorption energy of particles on a surface. This can be done by fitting the TPD data to a desorption model and using the integrated area to determine the desorption enthalpy.

5. Are there any limitations to using the Area under Desorption Curve (TPD) as a measure of desorption?

One limitation of using the TPD value is that it assumes all particles are completely desorbed from the surface. In some cases, a small fraction of particles may remain adsorbed even after the desorption process is complete. Additionally, the TPD value is affected by the heating rate and may not accurately reflect the true desorption behavior of the particles.

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