Research
Research
CO2 hydrogenation to higher alcohols (C+2 alcohols, HAs) is a promising approach for transforming waste streams into valuable chemical building blocks .[1] While Cu-based catalysts, such as Cu/ZnO/Al2O3, are widely used for methanol production, [2] the challenge lies in achieving efficient C-C coupling necessary for higher alcohols formation. Bimetallic or bifunctional catalysts are required to enhance selectivity and yield toward HAs, as Cu alone has limited ability for C-C bond formation.
In this project, PdCu-based catalysts will be investigated to enhance C-C coupling and improve ethanol selectivity. [3] Previous studies have shown that PdCu catalysts can achieve up to 92% ethanol selectivity at 200°C and 32 bar, [4] making them a strong candidate for this reaction. However, space-time yields (STY) for HA synthesis remain low compared to methanol production, and catalyst deactivation due to H2O and phase transformations poses significant challenges. [3]
To address these issues, this research will focus on understanding the nature of the active phase and the mechanisms involved in higher alcohols formation. By exploring the relationship between catalyst structure, reaction conditions, and performance, we aim to develop more robust and efficient catalysts for sustainable CO2 valorisation.
[1] S. Zhang, Z. Wu, X. Liu, K. Hua, Z. Shao, B. Wei, C. Huang, H. Wang, Y. Sun, Top. Catal. 2021, 64, 371-394
[2] D. Laudenschleger, H. Ruland, M. Muhler, Nat Commun. 2020, 11, 3898
[3] D. Xu, Y. Wang, M. Ding, X. Hong, G. Liu, S. C. E. Tsang, Chem 2021, 7, 849-881.
[4] S. Bai, Q. Shao, P. Wang, Q. Dai, X. Wang, X. Huang, J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2017, 139, 6827-6830.
C.V.
C.V.
2024 – present
PhD candidate in the Inorganic Chemistry & Catalysis group at Utrecht University, the Netherlands, under the supervision of Dr. Matteo Monai. Promotor: prof. Dr. ir. Bert Weckhuysen
2024
Internship at IQatalyst under the supervision of Gerda Kamsma, about resin hydrogenation.
2022 – 2024
Master’s degree in Nanomaterials Science, Utrecht University
Master thesis in the Inorganic Chemistry & Catalysis group under the supervision of Jelle Bos, about Sulphur-Tolerant Molybdenum Carbides for the Hydrodeoxygenation of Fatty Acids.
2017 – 2022
Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Zaragoza University
Bachelor thesis in the Institute of Nanoscience and Materials of Aragón under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Jesús Santamaría Ramiro, about enzymatic bioconjugation of platinum-based nanostructured materials as agents for the control of tumor.