The nanoscale structure of a catalyst under reaction conditions determines its activity, selectivity, and stability. For the production of sustainable energy and materials, new catalysts are needed. By understanding the structure-activity relationships of catalysts under reaction conditions, insight in the development of these new catalysts can be obtained. Using in situ imaging techniques under industrial conditions, we are currently studying Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, NO reduction and oxidation, hydrodesulfurization, CO oxidation, and chlorine production.

The student will be involved in ongoing research investigating the relationship between the structure of the active phase of a catalyst and its activity under industrially relevant conditions. These studies will be performed using scanning tunneling microscopy in high-pressure, high-temperature conditions. The student will learn the following experimental techniques: scanning tunneling microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, low-energy electron diffraction, and mass spectrometry. Catalyst preparation consists of physical vapor deposition of nanoparticles onto oxide films on single crystals.

• The project is available in the Fall and Spring semester.
• Number of placements available: 1 per semester.

Prerequisites

• Sophmore level chemistry or physics or materials science with strong interest in physical chemistry and/or heterogeneous catalysis.

Faculty Department

Faculty of Science / Leiden Institute of Chemistry.

The  Leiden Institute of Chemistry (LIC) is organized around two major research areas: Chemical Biology Energy & Sustainability Our research group contributes to the latter. In the area Energy & Sustainability research is focused on chemical reactions of importance to the sustainable and efficient production and storage of energy. Please check our website for information on our research activities relating to catalysis and surface science.