1. Reaction kinetics
Students can:
- Derive and apply differential equations to model chemical reaction kinetics using fundamental knowledge of reaction mechanisms, chemical approximations (e.g. steady state, rate determining and pre-equilibrium approximations).
- Derive and apply the Arrhenius equation to determine the activation barrier of chemical reactions.
2. Adsorption processes and formation of organometallic complexes
The student can:
- Identify and explain the similarities between complex formation in homogeneous catalysis, adsorption in heterogeneous catalysis and enzyme-substrate biding in biocatalysis.
- Derive and apply a Langmuir adsorption isotherm to describe the operation of heterogeneous catalysts for associative, dissociative, and competitive adsorption.
3. Catalytic mechanisms
The student can:
- Derive and explain the catalytic cycle using the 16/18 electron rule in homogeneous catalysis.
- Derive, apply, and analyze the results from modelling catalytic reactions in a heterogeneous catalyst using Langmuir-Hinshelwood and Eley-Rideal mechanisms.
- Derive and apply the Michaelis-Menten kinetics to describe bio-catalytic process.
4. Transport and Catalysis
The student can:
- Identify and explain the differences between molecular diffusion and Knudsen diffusion.
- Describe the effects of external and internal mass transport limitations in the reaction rate using the Thiele modulus and on the measured activation barrier using the Arrhenius plot.
5. Characterization
The student can:
- Identify and explain the differences between the microscopic and spectroscopic techniques employed for the physico-chemical characterization of heterogeneous catalysts and applies this information to analyze the catalyst performance during reaction.
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In this course, we will initially study the intrinsic kinetics of chemical reactions and subsequently the changes in these kinetics in the presence of a catalyst. We will look at homogeneous, heterogeneous and biocatalysis, with a focus on heterogeneous catalysis. This part of the module will be concluded with a written test and a case-study, where we will ask you to apply your acquired knowledge in a simulated realistic situation. For more information, please, check the detailed information and assessment plan in the appendix.
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