Microporous zeolite catalysts hold great potential as active materials for the production of chemicals and fuels from both captured CO2 and renewable biogas (methane) in a cyclic carbon economy. However, this scenario requires improved understanding, improved catalysts, and improved processes – all calling for fundamental studies.
The distinguishing feature of microporous zeolite materials is that their functional surface is internal surface. This means that the relevant chemical phenomena happen within the tight confinement offered by the porous crystal structure. This places special requirements on the tools available to study the chemistry occurring on these internal surfaces.
The objective of this project is to employ advanced spectroscopic and diffraction methods to understand and improve both the catalytic performance and stability of zeolite catalysts. We will adopt an operando strategy, which means to carry out the characterization while the zeolites are functioning as catalysts at realistic reaction conditions. We will employ diffraction, vibrational spectroscopy (infrared and Raman) and UV-Visible spectroscopy in a complementary manner. Interpretation of complex data will require simulations of structural and spectroscopic features of catalysts and catalytic intermediates. The project will be carried out in collaboration with the University of Torino.
Requirements
- MSc in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, or related fields, preferably in practical heterogeneous catalysis, is required.
- Candidates with documented experience in UV-Visible spectroscopy or Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) will be prioritized.
- Experience in situ or operando measurements of working catalysts is beneficial.
Supervisors
Call 2: Project start autumn 2022
This project is in call 2, starting autumn 2022.