Atomistic Design of Catalysts
Research Project, 2016
– 2021
The introduction of renewable energy systems requires development of entirely new chemical processes. One pressing demand is the need to store electricity in the form of chemical energy carriers. The general technology that enables this conversion is catalysis. However, many of the crucial reactions in envisioned renewable energy systems lack efficient catalysts. This calls for new methodologies to develop catalytic materials beyond the traditional trial-and-error approaches.
In this project, we will develop a new methodology to advance the understanding of key-processes in catalysis. The approach expands recent experimental and theoretical progress, and enables breakthroughs in the design of superior catalysts based on atomistic knowledge and control. The scientific outcome will be generic and provide a new platform to study surface phenomena at ambient conditions. As demanding model systems, the project targets two challenging reactions for synthesis of methanol, which is a desired energy carrier in future energy systems.
We address the challenges by collecting unique expertise within catalyst synthesis, in situ characterization and theoretical modelling. The project takes advantage of the rapid development of these fields during the past few years. We do this by integrating four world leading research groups at Chalmers, Lund University and the MAX IV Laboratory. The groups have the required complementary expertise within catalysis to take on outstanding challenges. Present and previous collaborations within the constellation have scientifically aligned the groups which already have a strong common track record within catalysis. Examples are the elucidation of the active phase ofpalladium during methane oxidation and the development of surface diffraction techniques to study catalysts during reaction conditions.
Given the unique constellation of the researchers, the proposed project has high potential to establish Sweden as a leading country in catalysis research.
Participants
Magnus Skoglundh (contact)
Applied Surface Chemistry
Per-Anders Carlsson
Applied Surface Chemistry
Henrik Grönbeck
Chalmers, Physics, Chemical Physics
Anders Hellman
Chalmers, Physics, Chemical Physics
Collaborations
Lund University
Lund, Sweden
MAX IV Laboratory
Lund, Sweden
Funding
Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation
Project ID: KAW2015.0058
Funding Chalmers participation during 2016–2021
Related Areas of Advance and Infrastructure
Sustainable development
Driving Forces
Nanoscience and Nanotechnology
Areas of Advance
Transport
Areas of Advance
Energy
Areas of Advance
Basic sciences
Roots
Innovation and entrepreneurship
Driving Forces
Materials Science
Areas of Advance