Research Methodology

    The scale gap between observable reaction rates and catalytic surface reactions on the nanoscale can be bridged through a hybrid experimental-theoretical approach.

    An iterative cycle of experimental catalyst characterization and testing combined with density-functional theory (DFT) calculations of surface species provides information for the development of reaction mechanisms. Experimental information establishes the basis for the selection of models and the level of theory for DFT calculations and then, in turn, results of the DFT calculations allow to deconvolute and better interpret experimental data. A combination of kinetic testing, infrared spectroscopy, adsorption measurements and temperature programmed reaction with DFT calculations proved to be particularly useful in understanding surface chemistry.

    Experimental and theoretical results on the modes of adsorption, energetics and reactivity of surface species can be consolidated into a traditional kinetic model for the description of observable reaction rates. For more detailed studies on the connection between nano-scale chemistry and macroscopic properties, results of DFT calculations can be combined with Monte Carlo (MC) simulations. For example, MC simulations were useful in evaluating effects of lateral interactions on co-adsorption of surface species. Specially developed MC simulations were also useful in merging into a single model dramatically different reactivity time scales of spectator and active species .

    A combination of catalyst characterization and testing with DFT calculations and kinetic modeling provides direction for catalyst and process development. For example, favorable reaction conditions or critical steps in the reaction mechanism can be identified. In addition, the reactivity of surface formulations that are difficult to study experimentally can be evaluated computationally. This approach can be generalized and extended to computational screening of various metal and metal oxide materials for catalytic transformations of light hydrocarbons, and it should provide the basis for establishing structure-activity correlations with the ultimate goal of rational catalyst design.

Funded Projects

“Collaborative Research: Fundamentals of Biomass Upgrading to Fuels and Chemicals over Catalytic Bimetallic Nanoparticles” (Project PI)

National Science Foundation, Division of Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental, and Transport Systems, Program: Catalysis and Biocatalysis. University announcement

"Pt-based Bimetallic Monolith Catalysts for Partial Upgrading of Microalgae Oil" (Project co-PI)

Department of Energy, Office of Biomass Program. University announcement

“Catalyzing New International Collaboration between Stevens Institute and Eindhoven University: Catalytic Gold and Silver Nanoparticles for Green Chemistry and Sustainability” (project PI)

National Science Foundation, Office of International and Integrative Activities. University announcement

Subtask “Design, Evaluation and Optimization of a Laboratory Microreactor System for Fischer-Tropsch Conversion of Synthesis Gas to Fuel” within the Main Project “Renewable Fuel from Pyrolysis of Waste Biomass for National Security and Defense” (Project co-PI),  Department of Defense

“Collaborative Research: Fundamentals of Natural Gas Conversion to Fuels and Chemicals over Molybdenum Nanostructures” (Project PI)

National Science Foundation, Division of Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental, and Transport Systems, Program: Catalysis and Biocatalysis. University announcement

Last updated on 08 Nov 2017.

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