Catalyst Research Highlights – BL2.2 TRXAS
At the BL2.2 (TRXAS) beamline, X-ray absorption spectroscopy is used to investigate oxidation states and coordination during Temperature-Programmed Reduction (TPR), and to monitor catalyst activation and deactivation under various gas atmospheres (H2, O2, CO, etc.). The works below highlight recent catalysis research enabled by the beamline.
Continuous Flow Hydrogenolysis of 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural into 2,5-Dimethylfuran over Alumina-Supported Nickel–Iron Alloy Catalysts
This study demonstrates the continuous hydrogenolysis of 5-HMF into 2,5-DMF (a next-generation biofuel) using bimetallic NiFe/γ-Al2O3 catalysts. The optimized Ni0.74Fe0.97Al catalyst achieved a 90.5% yield of 2,5-DMF with total conversion at 160 °C, significantly outperforming monometallic versions. Characterizations via XRD and in situ XANES revealed that the formation of a NiFe alloy and the balance of acidic sites were key to enhancing catalytic activity and metal–support interactions.
Authors: Munsuree Kalong, Atthapon Srifa, Sakhon Ratchahat, Wanida Koo-amornpattana, Yingyot Poo-arporn, Wanwisa Limphirat, Pongtanawat Khemthong, Suttichai Assabumrungrat, Keiichi Tomishige, and Sibudjing Kawi
Read the publication: https://doi.org/10.1039/D2SE01683D
3D Hierarchical MOF-Derived Defect-Rich NiFe Spinel Ferrite as a Highly Efficient Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Redox Reactions in Zinc–Air Batteries
This study presents a 3D hierarchical NiFe spinel ferrite-inspired structure designed for superior energy storage. It highlights a rational, electronically delocalized, cation defect-rich architecture on N-doped graphitic carbon sheets, promising to advance oxygen electrocatalysis in large-scale applications through enhanced active-site availability and transport.
Authors: Mohan Gopalakrishnan, Wathanyu Kao-ian, Meena Rittiruam, Supareak Praserthdam, Piyasan Praserthdam, Wanwisa Limphirat, Mai Thanh Nguyen, Tetsu Yonezawa, and Soorathep Kheawhom
Read the publication: https://doi.org/10.1021/acsami.3c17789