Overview
Our research is centered on synthesizing well-defined catalysts, evaluating targeted reactions, and exploring structure-activity relationships via advanced catalyst characterizations for the valorization of sustainable carbon resources, such as methane pyrolysis and (non-)oxidative coupling of methane. Using the bottom-up 'SEE Catal' strategy, we aim to uncover the fundamental principles of heterogeneous catalysis, guiding the precise engineering of active sites and their surrounding environment. Our goal is to develop efficient catalysts and optimal reaction systems based on the in-depth understanding of catalytic reaction mechanism, advancing the industrial catalytic utilization of CO2 and CH4.
Project 1. Biogas conversion to ethylene: enabling sustainable bioplastic manufacturing
The oxidative dehydrogenation of methane with COâ‚‚ (COâ‚‚-OCM) as the oxidant is particularly attractive due to its high concentration in resources such as biogas. However, raw biogas remains largely underutilized, primarily burned for heat and electricity or upgraded to biomethane, largely due to the lack of efficient OCM technologies. Our research focuses on engineering the size of binary metal active sites and investigating how size influences their geometric structure, electronic properties, and redox behavior. We also examine how these changes impact catalytic COâ‚‚-OCM performance. Ultimately, our goal is to design more efficient catalysts for COâ‚‚-OCM, accelerating the valorization of organic waste.
Project 2. Direct methane pyrolysis into hydrogen and value-added carbon
I am interested in direct methane pyrolysis as a sustainable pathway for producing hydrogen while simultaneously generating valuable carbon materials. This process offers a carbon-neutral alternative to conventional hydrogen production and transforms methane into high-performance carbon products, such as carbon nanotubes, graphite, or graphene. My research focuses on developing efficient catalysts and reactor designs to enhance methane conversion, control carbon morphology, and optimize the economic viability of this technology.
Project 3. Identifying the dynamics of active sites and reactive intermediates
We are fascinated by understanding reaction mechanisms, particularly the dynamics of active sites and reactive intermediates through in situ techniques. We believe that next-generation catalyst design requires a deeper understanding of reaction mechanisms, enabling a shift from the conventional "cook-and-look" approach to a more efficient, rational design strategy.
