Plasma-Enhanced Catalysis: A Detailed Study of Surface Interactions Between Low-Temperature Plasma and Catalytic Materials
Abstract
The goal of this research is to provide fundamental molecular insights into how plasmas modify surface catalytic chemistry and how these modifications can be exploited to control selectivity and efficiency during gas reforming. In this work, a novel plasma Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy/mass spectrometry (FTIR/MS) platform was developed to measure how atmospheric-pressure plasmas affect the adsorption/desorption and reactions that occur on various catalysts. Complementary studies were also conducted using inelastic neutron scattering at Oak Ridge National Laboratory to reveal reduction intermediates produced by plasma activation. Continued work with the continuous flow DBD catalysis reactor revealed the conversion and kinetics of plasma activation on ammonia synthesis, including the impact of catalysts on the DBD itself and how the DBD can promote conversion that extends beyond thermal equilibrium. Both atomistic simulations and microkinetic analysis were used to assess the underlying physical and chemical phenomena. Finally, the team published multiple comprehensive reviews of plasma-catalysis, primarily focusing on hydrocarbon reforming and ammonia synthesis.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 17, 2021
- Accession Number
- AD1140360
Entities
People
- David B Go
- Jason C Hicks
- William F Schneider
Organizations
- University of Notre Dame