RESEARCH

Work in our laboratory is directed at catalyst development for the cleaner synthesis of high value chemicals. Examples of new generation catalysts under investigation include:
(i) supported gold and silver catalysts;
(ii) Mo carbides and nitrides;
(iii) structured carbon (nano-fibre/tube) supported metals;
(iv) mixed (lanthanide/transition) metals.
The ultimate research goal is the fundamental understanding of the role of catalyst structure in determining catalytic properties, which informs the fabrication of novel reactive solids for use in sustainable processing, notably selective hydrogenation. We also examine catalysts for the non-destructive treatment (with recovery/recycle) of pollutants, with a particular focus on halogenated toxins. All our work involves comprehensive kinetic analysis and modelling with a coupling of catalyst testing and characterisation to inform process optimisation. Other research themes deal with materials (synthetic and biological) development for water treatment, coupled enzyme/supported metals, the catalytic growth of nano-structured carbons and the catalytic transformation of waste polymers into fuel oil.