Thrust Group 3:
Advanced Measurements Pertaining to Reactions and Reactors

Investigations by TG3 researchers involve the thorough study and optimization of the catalysts. They will produce the many determinations associated with alteration of the substrate itself (product distributions, kinetics, isotopic and stereochemical relationships, nature, history, efficiency, and lifetime of the catalyst, speciation, detection of inter-mediates, kinetics), and ultimately the molecular mechanism of the process. The nature of intermediates and the transition state will be probed further by sophisticated methods (ultrafast spectroscopy in the millisecond to femtosecond range). A broad range of characterization techniques and expertise is available for the activities of TG3 and this is consistent with the multiscale nature of the CEBC strategic plan. State-of-the-art techniques for characterization of catalyst activity include kinetic and mechanistic investigations; time-domain exploration of catalytic media, advanced techniques for measuring physical and transport properties of various reaction media, and characterization of mixing, hydrodynamics and performance of test bed reactors. The rational design and optimization of catalytic systems require a thorough understanding of structure, dynamics, and mechanisms at every scale.

TG3 Deliverables:

TG3 research provides fundamental insights into the mechanisms and properties of catalytic processes, catalytic sites, supporting structures, and solvent media. In the ‘enabling technology’ plane, new catalytic systems and new reactor designs (i.e., the technology elements required for the engineered systems) are developed.