Research field

Catalysis

Catalysis is the study and application of catalysts — substances that accelerate chemical reactions without being consumed — and underpins more than 90 per cent of chemical manufacturing processes globally. The field divides into heterogeneous catalysis, homogeneous catalysis using organometallic complexes, photocatalysis for light-driven reactions, and the rapidly growing area of electrocatalysis for green hydrogen production and CO2 reduction. Modern catalysis research uses operando spectroscopic techniques including in situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy and diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy to observe catalytic surfaces under reaction conditions. Single-atom catalysts, where isolated metal atoms on a support provide maximum atom efficiency, represent a frontier of materials design. Computational catalysis using density functional theory guides experimental screening. The field is central to sustainable chemistry, green energy including fuel cells and electrolysers, and the production of fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals. Major funders include energy companies, the chemical industry, and national science foundations.

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