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Multi-Functional Catalytic Reactors For Cleaner Air and Energy

Lyman Handy Colloquium SeriesPresentsMike HaroldUniversity of HoustonAbstract:The U.S. faces the challenge of reducing its energy appetite and cleaning its air while sustaining economic growth. With fossil fuels serving as the primary energy source for the foreseeable future, it is critical that the efficiency of power generation be increased while reducing emissions. In this talk short- and long-term technology solutions are described that require the development of new types of multi-functional catalytic reactors. The short-term solution exploits the improved fuel efficiency offered by diesel-power vehicles compared to their gasoline-powered counterparts. Diesel-powered vehicles require significant reductions in emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulates. We are investigating NOx storage and reduction (NSR) as a viable diesel emission abatement technology, which involves the application of a catalytic adsorptive reactor. Exhaust NOx is reactively adsorbed into a nitrate, which is then reduced by exhaust species, achieved by periodic operation. Our experimental and modeling results reveal that pulse injection of various reductants is effective in achieving a high time-averaged NOx conversion on Pt/Ba catalysts. Storage and reduction cycles are identified that maximize the NOx conversion and minimize reductant requirements. The results of mechanistic and modeling studies reveal a complex coupling between the catalytic chemistry and transport processes. A longer-term solution involves the use of fuel cells for distributed power generation. This approach requires efficient production of high purity hydrogen from fuels. We are investigating the use of a Pd alloy membrane reactor that integrates fuel reforming and hydrogen purification. The synthesis of novel encapsulated Pd membranes supported by porous ceramic fibers exhibit very good hydrogen flux and permselectivity. Experiments and modeling identify the membrane reactor design and operating conditions that maximize the reactor productivity and hydrogen utilization.

Location: James H. Zumberge Hall Of Science (ZHS) - -159

Audiences: Everyone Is Invited

Contact: Petra Pearce Sapir