Induction heating of nanoparticle catalysts for synthetic chemistry

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Context of research: Catalysis is the centrepiece of modern synthetic science, with application in both academic research and industrial manufacturing. A current key challenge in this field of research is achieving higher catalytic activity, efficiency and product throughput, i.e. intensification, while avoiding undesirable products. Intensification of catalytic processes often involves higher temperature which speeds up reactions, including side reactions. Many of these side reactions are not related to the catalyst, but are inherent to the starting materials and reaction conditions.This project will explore the use of induction heating to selectively heat up ferromagnetic nanoparticles as catalysts in solution. This will enable direct energy transfer to the catalyst and catalyst-substrate complexes, circumventing non-catalysed side reactions which are associated with high temperature. Aims and objectives: The objectives of the project are listed below.(i) Development of suitable induction heating batch and flow reactors.(ii) Development of ferromagnetic nanoparticles of iron, iron oxide and iron alloys with other metals which can replace traditional precious metal organometallic catalysts.(iii) Evaluation of these catalysts and reactors and benchmarking against traditional heating processes.Potential applications and benefits:The project has potential applications across the whole field of catalysis, from synthetic processes to bulk and specialty chemicals manufacturing processes. The developed ferromagnetic nanoparticles are potential IPs which will be commercialised as appropriate.The student will benefit from training in inorganic chemistry, nanoparticle science and techniques, and catalytic research. He will also benefit from an interdisciplinary seminar programme at the Institute of Process Research & Development, University of Leeds. Presentations and knowledge transfer to industry in the High Value Chemical Manufacture sector, through our biannaual Industrial Days, and at postgraduate conferences will be part of his training.