Catalysts
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Synthesis of novel catalysts Over the past years the laboratory has developed significant activities towards the development of a range of new catalytic materials, mainly through the adaptation of the two combustion synthesis routes: SHS and Solution Combustion (SC) which offer many important advantages over traditional synthesis methods which involve long calcination under high temperatures. Some are shown in the photo below. The main categories of catalysts under development during the last few years are: 1) Cu-Cr spinel catalysts for oxidation of carbon monoxide and aromatics for neutralisation of exhaust gases from internal combustion engines, at lower temperatures than those needed by the usual Pd or Pt-loaded catalysts (graph on the right) 2) Ni-based catalysts for the production of synthesis gas (CO + H2) by CO2 reforming of methane (CH4) with excellent performance compared to industrial catalysts used in industry (graph below left). 3) Hydrogenation catalysts for chemical industry applications In all 3 categories, the catalysts developed display significantly improved properties such as yield and selectivity over many industrial catalysts used in correspnding industries. Their activity as measured is very high even at lower temperatures than those needed by industrial catalysts for equivalent perfomance. |
