CH2310: Catalysis and Electrocatalysis
| School | Cardiff School of Chemistry |
| Department Code | CHEMY |
| Module Code | CH2310 |
| External Subject Code | 100417 |
| Number of Credits | 10 |
| Level | L6 |
| Language of Delivery | English |
| Module Leader | Professor Gary Attard |
| Semester | Autumn Semester |
| Academic Year | 2013/4 |
Outline Description of Module
This module illustrates the wide range of catalysis and its relevance to industry and environmental matters, describes the mechanisms involved in catalysis at the molecular level, and illustrates the techniques available for the study of these processes.
On completion of the module a student should be able to
- describe the role of catalysts and discuss their uses in the chemical industry;
- compare and contrast heterogeneous catalysis and electrocatalysis;
- discuss the typical properties and design of a heterogeneous catalyst;
- list examples of important industrial and domestic processes that are catalysed;
- discuss the different models advanced to account for a heterogeneously catalysed enantioselective hydrogenation;
- understand the role played by the electrical double layer in activating chemical bonds;
- compare and contrast various models of the double layer;
- explain the chemistry of bimetallic catalysts in fuel cell reactions.
How the module will be delivered
22 x 1 h Lectures, 3 x 1 h Workshops, 1 x 1 h Tutorial
How the module will be assessed
A written exam (2 h) will test the student’s knowledge and understanding as elaborated under the learning outcomes. The coursework (workshops) will allow the student to demonstrate his/her ability to judge and critically review relevant information.
Assessment Breakdown
| Type | % | Title | Duration(hrs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exam - Autumn Semester | 70 | Catalysis And Electrocatalysis | 2 |
| Written Assessment | 30 | Workshops & Tutorial | N/A |
Syllabus content
The module will begin by covering the basics and applications of catalysis, effects of catalysts on reaction rates and product distribution, requirements for practical catalysts, and the design of catalysts with attention to active phases, supports and promoters.
Examples include catalysts for (i) oxidation, including pollution clean-up; (ii) hydrogenation including enantioselective hydrogenation, (iii) refining processes; (iv) removal of sulfur from fuels; (v) production and use of synthesis gas, and processes for ammonia and methanol synthesis; (vi) pollution control with particular reference to car exhaust catalysts.
Electrochemical catalytic systems including fuel cells will also be covered. These devices offer energy efficient methods of power utilisation based on hydrogen and biofuels such as ethanol. The important electrocatalytic principles governing their mode of operation will be described together with fundamental ideas concerning the electrical double layer and experimental protocols for describing electrocatalytic processes. These will include discussion of Tafel plots, the Butler-Volmer equation, surface modification and capacitance.
Essential Reading and Resource List
An up-to-date reading list will be included in the Course Handbook.