(4qb) Development of Innovative Catalysts for Advancing Processes towards Sustainability

With my expertise in material development and ex-situ characterization techniques, I am eager to continue advancing ammonia-related research, particularly in developing catalysts for both ammonia synthesis and cracking. Besides, given the known and common challenges of scaling relations in thermal and electrochemical ammonia synthesis processes, I am particularly interested in exploring the electrocatalyst development for electrochemical ammonia synthesis.

However, my research ambitions extend beyond ammonia synthesis. I am keen to explore state- of-the-art synthesis and characterization techniques to design more efficient catalysts for various catalytic processes, including CO2 hydrogenation to produce value-added products, Fischer-Tropsch process, and NOx reduction. By delving into these areas, I aim to contribute to the development of catalysts that not only enhance industrial efficiency but also promote sustainability, aligning with the growing demand for greener and more energy-efficient chemical processes.

Abstract

Catalytic industrial processes are essential for sustaining modern society, as they underpin the production of a wide range of critical products - including fuels, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and materials - that are fundamental to everyday life. Heterogeneous catalysts are particularly crucial as they often determine the overall efficiency and cost-effectiveness of these processes. Consequently, developing robust and high-performance catalysts is essential for optimizing industrial operations and achieving cost reductions while improving sustainability.

During my Ph.D., I initially focused on enhancing the traditional Haber-Bosch process to facilitate the production of 'green ammonia.' Decarbonizing ammonia (NH3) synthesis is a crucial research challenge, as the conventional industrial route is responsible for emitting approximately 1.6 tons of CO2 per ton of NH3 produced. Instead of relying on the conventional high-temperature and high- pressure Haber-Bosch process, which utilizes a phase-changing condensation step for NH₃ separation, we explored alternative instantaneous separation techniques to promote more sustainable NH3 synthesis. These techniques provide greater flexibility in controlling reaction conditions, thereby enabling integration with renewable energy sources and contributing to the overall decarbonization of the NH3 production process. In this context, we conducted lab-scale experiments using a metal-halide salt-based absorber column to optimize reaction-absorption parameters in transient mode. By testing various reaction and absorption conditions, such as pressure, temperature, and space velocity, we identified optimal parameters for individual operations. These conditions were further evaluated and optimized in transient and cyclic modes. With the investigated conditions, the absorption enhanced Haber-Bosch process could run continuously achieving NH3 purity levels exceeding 95%. This continuous cyclic operation demonstrates the potential of the absorption enhanced Haber-Bosch process for more sustainable and efficient NH3 production.

Subsequently, my research focus shifted toward the development of novel catalysts for NH₃ synthesis, with an emphasis on green chemistry principles to ensure sustainability in catalyst production. A key objective is to develop robust catalysts capable of operating under milder conditions. In one project, we synthesized a Co-LiH catalyst that was reported to be able to break the catalytic scaling relation while having a very high NH3 production rate at low temperatures, although we discovered its instability due to material properties and complex reaction mechanism between the catalytic materials. This project intrigues us to develop a robust catalyst which could sustain the reaction conditions for long term without compromising the production rate. So doing so, we are developing a Ruthenium (Ru) catalyst supported by Laser Induced Graphene (LIG), which exhibits activity comparable to benchmark Fe and Ru catalysts, with superior performance relative to carbon-supported Ru catalysts. LIG offers advantages such as ease of bulk fabrication without requiring pre-treatment, and it facilitates higher dispersion of active metals leading to higher rates of NH3 production. Preliminary stability tests of the LIG-supported and promoted Ru catalyst indicate no signs of deactivation. Detailed findings on catalytic activity and mechanisms under varying conditions will be presented at the AIChE Annual Meeting 2024.

I bring over three years of hands-on experience in the chemical synthesis industry, where I played a pivotal role in securing $2 million in funding for a Maximo software upgrade by crafting a compelling justification for the project. My time at KAFCO provided me with valuable insights into the intricacies of industrial-scale processes. As a graduate research assistant, I have further honed my skills in proposal writing, contributing to successful applications, including a 2022 Department of Energy grant aimed at advancing sustainable green ammonia manufacturing.

For the past five years, my work has focused on developing sustainable ammonia synthesis processes through innovative material development and process optimization. I bring a dual perspective as both a researcher and an engineer, enabling me to think critically, embrace challenges, and approach problem-solving with a focus on environmental sustainability and cost- efficiency. My combined industry and academic experience equip me not only to drive research forward but also to mentor undergraduate and graduate students, fostering their growth in the field. I am confident that my skills and dedication will make a valuable contribution to any research team.