PROJECT TITLE: Reverse Water-Gas Shift Catalysis with Copper Exchanged Zeolites
TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
The objective of the proposed program is to develop a catalytic system for efficient conversion of carbon dioxide and hydrogen to carbon monoxide and steam (reverse water-gas shift). The technical objectives will be achieved by optimizing both the catalyst material and process operating conditions. Alumina and metal oxide supported copper has been shown to be an effective catalyst for the reverse water-gas shift (RWGS) reaction, but investigations of copper exchanged zeolite catalysts have not been reported. Given the unique characteristics of aluminosilicates as a catalyst support, the application of copper exchanged zeolites to RWGS catalysis possesses a high probability of demonstrating unprecedented activity and selectivity. Copper exchanged catalysts of zeolite Y and ZSM-5 will be tested for RWGS activity, and variables such as inclusion of alkali promoters, CO2:H2 feed ratio, and temperature will be optimized. The incentive for this project is to provide a simple, cost-effective method for the condensation of potable water from an otherwise uninhabitable Martian atmosphere. Additionally, potential application of the same technology to terrestrial chemical industry provides an excellent opportunity for procurement of Phase III funding.
POTENTIAL COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS
Highly active and selective catalysts discovered under this contract will be immediately applicable toward terrestrial CO2 remediation efforts and environmentally responsible production of CO. Carbon monoxide is a valuable raw material utilized for the industrial production of many commodity chemicals including methanol, formaldehyde, and acetic acid. The RWGS reaction is very likely to prove an economically competitive route to conventional carbon monoxide formation processes.
NAME AND ADDRESS OF PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR
Steven T. Harford
Eltron Research, Inc
5660 Airport Blvd. #105
Boulder , CO 80301 - 2340
NAME AND ADDRESS OF OFFEROR
Eltron Research, Inc.
5660 Airport Blvd., #105
Boulder , CO 80301 - 2340