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Characterising Carbon Conversion Catalysts with Bench-top Mass Spectrometers
A carbon conversion catalyst accelerates the chemical reactions that transform carbon dioxide (CO2) into valuable outputs like fuels and chemicals. While CO2 conversion typically demands significant energy, catalysts enhance the speed and specificity of this process. These versatile catalysts find applications in thermochemical, electrochemical, and photocatalytic reactions. Materials like graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) have shown promise to be potent catalysts for CO2 conversion. The creation, refinement, and fine-tuning of these catalysts are central to many initiatives in the catalytic conversion domain. Recent studies indicate that innovative catalysts can boost the efficacy of CO2 conversion, producing gasoline and other beneficial byproducts.
The global push towards sustainable energy solutions has intensified the focus on carbon conversion, particularly the capture and in-situ hydrogenation of CO2 to CH4 on dual-function materials (DFMs). Bench-top mass spectrometers, such as the Hiden Analytical HPR-20 EGA, have become indispensable in this research, offering insights into the conversion processes.
Recent research has highlighted the potential of supported LaNiO3 perovskites as precursors for efficient DFMs for CO2 adsorption and in-situ hydrogenation to methane. Traditional DFMs typically comprise a CO2 storage material combined with a metal, usually Ni or Ru, to assist in methanation. However, the high cost of Ru and the lower activity of Ni have driven researchers to explore alternatives.
The Hiden Analytical HPR-20 EGA mass spectrometer has been instrumental in monitoring temperature-programmed experiments, such as H2-TPR, H2-TPD, and CO2-TPD. These experiments have been crucial in determining the physicochemical properties of the DFMs, especially in understanding the interaction between the basic sites and the homogenously distributed Ni sites.
The DFM derived from the 30% LaNiO3/CeO2 formulation has shown promising results, with the smallest Ni particle size and the highest concentration of medium-strong basic sites. This DFM has demonstrated an operational window superior to other formulations, maintaining methane production between 80 and 103 µmol g−1 and a selectivity towards methane above 90% in the 280-520°C range.
Furthermore, the DFM’s versatility is evident in its stable CH4 production during long-term experiments and its ability to quickly recover CH4 production without O2. Such properties make the 30% LaNiO3/CeO2-based DFM formulation an ideal candidate for converting CO2 outlet streams from various combustion flue gases.
At Hiden Analytical, we demonstrate the significance of advanced tools like the HPR-20 EGA bench-top mass spectrometer in carbon conversion. Our dedication to supporting researchers and providing top-tier equipment ensures that every laboratory can fully harness the potential of these devices. We invite you to explore our range and discover how Hiden Analytical can elevate your research endeavours.Join us in pioneering the future of carbon conversion research. Explore the potential of our bench-top mass spectrometers and be at the forefront of sustainable energy solutions.