Advancing Cu/ZnO/Al2O3 catalysts: from synthesis strategies to catalytic performance
Provider: Grantová agentura ČR
Programme: Standardní projekty
Implementation period: 01.01.25 - 31.12.27
Workplace:
Fakulta chemicko-technologická - Katedra fyzikální chemie
Investigator: Bulánek RomanTeam member: Essid Safaa | Knotková Kateřina
Description:
The project deals with new synthesis of Cu/ZnO/Al2O3 hydrogenation/dehydrogenation catalysts enabling controlled embedding of active copper sites in ZnO/Al2O3 matrix having hydrotalcite structure. The starting precursors and the final catalysts will be thoroughly characterized to determine catalyst’s structure and properties. Special attention will be paid to the active copper sites, their structure, and the effect of their surroundings on their activity and selectivity. The characterization will rely on a combination of in-situ techniques with theoretical modeling of the structure and properties of the active copper centers and their ZnO/Al2O3 interface. Finally, the performance of the synthesized catalysts in model hydrogenation (hydrogenation of CO, CO2 and furfural) and dehydrogenation (ethanol and cyclohexanol dehydrogenation) reactions will be evaluated. The activity, selectivity, and stability of the catalysts will be related to the determined properties and structure, including the geometry of the active sites.
The project deals with new synthesis of Cu/ZnO/Al2O3 hydrogenation/dehydrogenation catalysts enabling controlled embedding of active copper sites in ZnO/Al2O3 matrix having hydrotalcite structure. The starting precursors and the final catalysts will be thoroughly characterized to determine catalyst’s structure and properties. Special attention will be paid to the active copper sites, their structure, and the effect of their surroundings on their activity and selectivity. The characterization will rely on a combination of in-situ techniques with theoretical modeling of the structure and properties of the active copper centers and their ZnO/Al2O3 interface. Finally, the performance of the synthesized catalysts in model hydrogenation (hydrogenation of CO, CO2 and furfural) and dehydrogenation (ethanol and cyclohexanol dehydrogenation) reactions will be evaluated. The activity, selectivity, and stability of the catalysts will be related to the determined properties and structure, including the geometry of the active sites.
