Metal and metal oxide nanostructures can be prepared in much different morphology (nanowires, nanobelts, nanofibres etc.) which are known to exhibit better adjustable properties in many fields compared to their conventional counterparts. As part of ongoing research in the development of more selective and efficient (overall greener) oxidation catalysts, the present proposal is part of a wider research programme (including funding grants). This proposal aims at understanding how a given reagent interacts with the catalyst’s surface in oxidation catalysis. A previous INS experiment has provided useful insights that deserve to be further explored. Results will contribute to establish a rational on how the mechanism works, especially why long induction periods are observed.