Catalysis – the fundamental engineering of chemical reactions – is responsible for nearly all chemicals produced in the synthetic and biological world. In particular, heterogeneous catalytic reactions, involving reactions at an interface, create a majority of the commodity chemicals and fuels used in today's society and are critical in enabling tomorrow's energy technologies, including fuel synthesis, biomass conversion, artificial photosynthesis, fuel cells, low-carbon fertilizers, and even batteries. Our research laboratory takes a dual approach to catalyst design, by conducting high-throughput quantum-mechanical computations that rationalize material activity (“theory”), as well as by performing laboratory-based synthesis, testing, and analysis (“experiment”).
The reactivity of heterogeneous catalysts is dictated by their atomic configurations, electronic structure, and the interaction with adsorbates. Our laboratory utilizes high-performance computing to understand the reactivity of existing catalysts and to develop design principles for new catalysts. Our experimental facilities include synthesis capabilities, a high-pressure reaction cell, and electrochemical / analytical testing facilities.
Located in the School of Engineering under the direction of Andrew Peterson, the Catalyst Design Lab combines a theoretical understanding of heterogeneous catalytic systems with laboratory-based experimental testing. Catalysts are crucial for transforming our energy economy, and our laboratory focuses on catalysts for electrofuels and biofuels.
