(9g) Spectroscopy and Reaction Engineering: Unveiling Chemical Transformations

Spectroscopy comprises one of the most important and rather holistic toolsets that reaction engineers utilize to bring new processes to life. From routine measurements to advanced process analytical technology approaches, and from catalyst development to real-time monitoring of catalyst activity, spectroscopy appears to be more of a parallel path than a mere intersection with reaction engineering. In this work, we will showcase how vibrational spectroscopy is currently utilized to bridge the gap between catalyst synthesis and reactivity. As a case study we will discuss the synthesis of isolated (MoOx)n sites on the surface of different transition metal oxides. Specific attention will be given to exploring the transferability of knowledge gained from laboratory-scale synthesis to address key challenges at the manufacturing scale. Finally, we will discuss the concept of transient operando methodology as the next-generation toolbox for unveiling catalyst behavior without the need for extrapolating kinetic data to low conversion.