Scientific foundations for synthesis and selection of heterogeneous catalysts
The primary research interests of the "Scientific Foundations for the Synthesis and Selection of Heterogeneous Catalysts" group encompass fundamental and applied research into the synthesis, characterization, and activity of novel heterogeneous catalysts. The group conducts interdisciplinary experimental research aimed at investigating the relationship between structure and catalytic activity. Particular emphasis is placed on employing various methods to produce nanostructured materials with tailored properties. During the 1980s, new catalysts for the nitrogen industry were developed; production technologies for them were implemented and subsequently patented. In 1995, the group initiated pioneering research on gold catalysts for the low-temperature water-gas shift (WGS) reaction. Since then—and continuing to the present—significant effort has been dedicated to developing nanoscale gold catalysts supported on various metal oxides (Fe2O3, TiO2, ZrO2, CeO2, rare-earth and transition-metal-oxide-modified CeO2, and mixed metal oxides). These catalysts exhibit exceptionally high activity in reactions relevant to pure hydrogen production via the WGS reaction, selective CO oxidation, and environmental protection (hydrocarbon oxidation, low-temperature CO oxidation, and the removal of nitrogen oxides from waste gases). New advanced materials—nanostructured mesoporous oxides (TiO2 and ZrO2), titanium oxide nanotubes, and cerium oxide nanorods—have been synthesized and utilized as promising supports. The results of the research on gold catalysts are summarized in three patents and over 150 publications in international journals and conference proceedings; these findings have garnered significant interest from the scientific community (attracting over 5,000 citations) and have been presented at more than 150 national and international scientific events. The research team participates in studies conducted under joint projects within the COST and NATO programs, as well as national, bilateral, and inter-academic projects involving universities and academic institutions.
