RESEARCH INTERESTS IN THE AREA OF SURFACE SCIENCE AND CATALYSIS

My research interests focus on the reaction chemistry at solid surfaces. These systems are investigated at a molecular level to gain insight into the solid phase as well as the reacting surface molecules. Fundamental chemical concepts are used to solve problems in the areas of heterogeneous catalysis, oxide film growth, corrosion, and surface analysis.

Heterogeneous Catalysis: The preparation, characterization, and testing of new catalyst formulations. Several microreactor systems are available to evaluate catalyst performance. The catalyst studies address a broad range of petroleum refining, automotive, aerospace, and environmental problems. Our research group has developed methanol decomposition catalysts which enable efficient, low-emission operation of automobiles on methanol. This concept was tested on-board a Ford Escort. We are also working with our colleagues in Chemical Engineering to develop catalysts for on-board generation of ethers from alcohols fuels for the cold starting and operation of a Ford Taurus.

Ford Escort using On-board Catalytic Convertor for Methanol Dissociation:

Ethanol Dehydration Reactor:

Automated Catalytic Test Reactor:

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Last Updated: 09/01/99