MORE | Fall 2024

Analysing Molecular-Level Methanol Adsorption Dynamics on Zeolite-Based Catalysts using Solid-State NMR

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Understanding molecular-level interactions is essential for the development of new catalytic processes, especially for conversion of potential sustainable feedstocks like methanol. This project aims to establish quantitative relationships between macroscopic catalytic properties of ZSM-5, a prototypical zeolite catalyst, and molecular-level methanol adsorption/reaction dynamics. The approach is to derive detailed molecular-level insights into adsorption site structures and interactions by leveraging advanced multinuclear solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, complemented by catalytic reactivity and adsorption tests. The analyses will directly identify and classify molecular adsorption/reaction sites, providing insights for the design of more efficient materials for methanol conversion into fuel-grade hydrocarbons.

Student researcher

Mohan Chellarao Pentakota

Chemical engineering

Hometown: Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India

Graduation date: Fall 2025