3D Assembly of Single Atoms into multi-structured catalysts

A critical challenge in developing industrially relevant catalysts for biomass conversion is to combine high surface areas and activity with low mass transfer resistance of large biomolecules to the active sites, predominantly located inside the internal pores of the materials. Instead of employing conventional microporous zeolites and mesoporous silicas with unimodal pore sizes, the project aims to develop unique novel multiscale porous materials which will combine the advantages of active site accessibility and efficient mass transport effects with high surface area and spatial confinement of active sites. Fundamental science of self-assembly will be employed to encapsulate single metal ions and/or 2D assemblies within the uniform silica matrix to develop novel catalyst with unique reactivity. Formulation protocols will be developed for the batch manufacturing followed by the scale up.