Graduation Semester and Year
Spring 2025
Language
English
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry
Department
Chemistry and Biochemistry
First Advisor
Frederick MacDonnell
Abstract
Various methods for enhancing catalysts activity and productivity in gas to liquid synthesis like Direct Methane to Methanol Conversion and Fischer Tropsch Synthesis have been studied over the years. Some of these methods include the use of promoters, bifunctional catalysts, introducing steam, optimizing reaction conditions and catalyst modification. The choice of catalysts and their modification plays a critical role in improving the overall productivity in gas to liquid synthesis.
This research explored the superhydrophobic modification of heterogenous catalysts used in Direct Methane to Methanol Conversion (DMTM) and Fischer Tropsch Synthesis (FTS). The catalysts were modified with Perfluoro alkyls (PFSMA). The method of modification and properties of the PFSMA were studied. The effect of the superhydrophobic modification on the catalyst properties, activity and productivity was explored and compared to traditional unmodified catalysts.
Longer chain PFSMA have superhydrophobic behavior and high thermal stability while shorter chain PFSMA have lower hydrophobicity. The type of solvent used for modification depends on the type of PFSMA and catalyst support used.
Superhydrophobic modified catalysts show improved activity, selectivity and catalytic performance both in DMTM and in FTS. This is because the superhydrophobic surface helps to repel water and other polar products from the catalyst active sites, thereby enhancing catalyst stability and activity.
Keywords
Heterogeneous catalysis, Gas to liquid synthesis, Catalysis, Methane to methanol conversion, Fuels
Disciplines
Inorganic Chemistry | Materials Chemistry
License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Igboenyesi, Oluchukwu V., "Direct Partial Oxidation of Methane to Methanol Using Dioxygen Over Superhydrophobic Modified Catalysts" (2025). Chemistry & Biochemistry Dissertations. 285.
https://mavmatrix.uta.edu/chemistry_dissertations/285