Research Capabilities
Engineered Catalytic Materials
The RMTD group has contributed to the development of engineered catalytic materials through the study and design of ceramic-catalyst particle interfaces. Advanced, all-ceramic, microchannel catalytic devices have been designed and fabricated.
RMTD staff test experimental diesel particulate (soot) filters on a diesel car using a Chassis Dynamometer—a treadmill for vehicles that provides realistic road operating conditions. The suite of instruments available to researchers at PNNL allows them to develop and evaluate vehicle exhaust after-treatment systems. Diesel engines are more efficient than gasoline engines, so finding ways to cost-effectively clean up diesel engine exhaust will help get efficient diesel vehicles on the road.
Scanning Transmission Electron micrograph and energy dispersive spectroscopy elemental dot map of Rh catalyst particles on porous aluminum oxide support.
SEM (A&B) and TEM (C&D) micrographs from Rh-coated porous alumina specimens before (A&C) and after (B&D) catalytic testing at 900°C for 100 hours. Before testing (A&B), the Rh metal was not distinguishable on the SEM micrograph (A), and consisted of Rh-islands ~12.7nm in diameter. After testing (C&D), the Rh had sintered on the Al2O3 structure, and was clearly visible in the SEM micrograph as small white spheres, with an average size of 30.2nm.
SEM micrographs from the cross-section of a porous alumina specimen impregnated with Rh nitrate. Specimen was tested for methane steam reforming at 850°C for 100 hours, with S:C =1, and at 27 ms contact time. Catalytic activity and CO selectivity were excellent. Slight deactivation was observed and the cause was attributed to sintering of the Rh. The small, bright dots in “D” were sintered Rh particles.
Macro view of tape cast aluminum oxide support.
Macro view of tape cast aluminum oxide support.