Net zero and catalysis: how neutrons can help

Parker, S. F. and Lennon, D. (2021) Net zero and catalysis: how neutrons can help. Physchem, 1(1), pp. 95-120. (doi: 10.3390/physchem1010007)

Abstract

Net Zero has the aim of achieving equality between the amount of greenhouse gas emissions produced and the amount removed from the atmosphere. There is widespread acceptance that for Net Zero to be achievable, chemistry, and hence catalysis, must play a major role. Most current studies of catalysts and catalysis employ a combination of physical methods, imaging techniques and spectroscopy to provide insight into the catalyst structure and function. One of the methods used is neutron scattering and this is the focus of this Perspective. Here, we show how neutron methods are being used to study reactions and processes that are directly relevant to achieving Net Zero, such as methane reforming, Fischer–Tropsch synthesis, ammonia and methanol production and utilization, bio-mass upgrading, fuel cells and CO2 capture and exploitation. We conclude by describing some other areas that offer opportunities.

• Item Type: Articles
• Additional Information: This work was funded by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC).
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Lennon, Professor David and Parker, Dr Stewart

Creator Roles

Parker, S. F.: Conceptualization, Writing – original draft, Writing – review and editing
Lennon, D.: Conceptualization, Writing – review and editing

• Authors: Parker, S. F., and Lennon, D.
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Chemistry
• Journal Name: Physchem
• Publisher: MDPI
• ISSN: 2673-7167
• ISSN (Online): 2673-7167
• Published Online: 09 June 2021
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2021 The Authors
• First Published: First published in Physchem 1(1): 95-120
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced under a Creative Commons License