08/01/2024
By Kwok Fan Chow
The Kennedy College of Science, Department of Chemistry, invites you to attend a Ph.D. Research Proposal defense by Arca Anil entitled “Reaction Mechanism of Glycerol Hydrodeoxydation on Pt/W(110) Model Catalyst.”
Degree: Doctoral
Location: Olney, Room 518
Date: Friday, Aug. 9, 2024
Time: 1 p.m.
Committee:
- Chair: Prof. James E. Whitten, Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Lowell
- Prof. Marina Ruths, Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Lowell
- Prof. Kwok-Fan Chow, Department of Chemistry, University of Massachusetts Lowell
- Prof. Jayant Kumar, Department of Physics, University of Massachusetts Lowell
Abstract:
This study investigates the hydrodeoxygenation of glycerol on Pt/W(110) catalysts, aiming to advance the production of valuable chemicals from biodiesel byproducts. Employing a novel approach integrating theoretical insights and experimental validations, the intricate reaction mechanism governing glycerol conversion will be studied. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis will elucidate the Pt film growth mechanism on the W(110) surface. Catalyst preparation and glycerol desorption experiments will follow, supported by infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy (IRAS) and temperature programmed desorption (TPD) experiments to probe reaction intermediates and desorbed products. The experimental reaction mechanism for 1,3-propanediol (1,3-PDO) formation will be guided by density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Notably, this research pioneers the use of ultra-high vacuum (UHV) systems with Pt/W(110) catalysts for glycerol hydrodeoxygenation, offering a unique perspective. By shedding light on the glycerol hydrodeoxygenation process, this study will contribute to the production of valuable chemicals from glycerol, a biodiesel byproduct.
All interested students and faculty members are invited to attend.