Accelerate chemical reactions - decoupling adsorption and reaction kinetics

We found that a reactant mixture may react faster than the individual compounds. This rather contradicts a common sense and Langmuir-Hinshelwood model of reaction. Importantly, it opens a way to decouple the adsorption and reaction phenomena over the catalyst surface by using separate catalyst additives. In conventional catalysis, the catalyst and reactant must match well in terms of adsorption energy. Too strong adsorption hinders the reaction by over-occupying the surface; too weak adsorption leaves the catalyst surface empty – in both cases, the reaction rates are slow. In the project, you will study and demonstrate a novel concept of decoupling adsorption and reaction using adsorption modifiers.
The PhD at the School of Engineering, Warwick University, offers an effective mix of academic and practical application. Warwick’s School of Engineering, ranked 3rd by the REF 2014, has expertly designed this programme with quality research-led teaching at its forefront. Gain valuable research skills and knowledge with specialist guidance at the University of Warwick. The university is ranked 9th in the UK, 62nd in the world

The PhD at the School of Engineering, Warwick University, offers an effective mix of academic and practical application. Warwick’s School of Engineering, ranked 3rd by the REF 2014, has expertly designed this programme with quality research-led teaching at its forefront. Gain valuable research skills and knowledge with specialist guidance at the University of Warwick. The university is ranked 9th in the UK, 62nd in the world
How to Apply: Email a full CV, academic transcripts, and cover letter, explaining your interest in pursuing a PhD in this area to: [Email Address Removed] with ‘PhD Application’ in the subject line.
Start date: October 2020, early start is possible.