Catalysis

The objective of my recent doctoral research is to develop advanced silica materials from rice husk ash, a renewable and abundant agro-industrial waste. Using alkaline extraction chemical methods followed by sol-gel synthesis, the applied methodology allowed the production of nanometric silica with extraction yields above 90%. This silica was then used as a support material for the development of nickel-based catalysts applied in CO2 hydrogenation reactions.

Water presents significant advantages when used in heterogeneous catalysis. Unlike traditional organic solvents, water is non-toxic, non-flammable, and readily available. Heterogeneous catalysts, which differ in state from the reaction medium, can be performed in water to facilitate various chemical reactions. For instance, micellar catalysis has proven effective for aminations, leveraging recyclable catalysts and aqueous reaction media to achieve high reactions yields of pharmaceutical APIs and complex targets.

This poster highlights the background, history, and applications of heterogeneous catalysis.

Made by Evan Chen, Renata Bence and Luis López Rojas for the 2024 ACS GCI Green and Sustainable Chemistry Summer School.

Solar energy stands as a cornerstone in the pursuit of a sustainable future. This poster explores the history and advancements in solar technology, highlighting its significant role in reducing carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. By examining the latest innovations in photovoltaic systems, energy storage solutions, and grid integration, we demonstrate how solar energy is leading to a cleaner, more resilient energy infrastructure. Furthermore, we discuss how solar energy drives the principles of green chemistry, promoting environmentally friendly practices in energy production.

Metal catalysts play a fundamental role in the pursuit of sustainable practices. They can optimize efficiency and minimize waste in chemical reactions that produce sustainable products/processes, helping to reduce harmful substances to the environment and human health, combat climate change, and generate clean energy. The most widely used catalysts are noble metals (e.g., platinum, palladium, and iridium) due to their desirable catalytic properties, such as high stability and temperature tolerance. However, the use of noble metals is hindered by their high cost and limited availability.

An overview of Phase Transfer Catalysis (PTC)

An overview of approaches used to catalyze chemical hazards into benign substances.