2023

Catalysis and Catalytic Methods

Name: Catalysis and Catalytic Methods
Code: QUI13544M
6 ECTS
Duration: 15 weeks/156 hours
Scientific Area: Chemistry

Teaching languages: Portuguese
Languages of tutoring support: Portuguese, English
Regime de Frequência: Presencial

Sustainable Development Goals

Learning Goals

The aim of the curricular unit is to provide an overview of catalysis and catalytic methods and their importance in the current context. It is intended to present the essential aspects about homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis, characterization and preparation of catalysts, and catalytic reactors. It is intended to show case studies and applications in the context of heavy chemistry, fine chemistry, clean energy sources and environmental remediation.
The curricular unit will allow the acquisition of the following competences: a) to know the fundamental principles of catalysis and catalytic methods; b) characterize the catalytic systems for the different types of catalysis; c) understand the importance of catalysis in the context of current societal challenges; d) ability to plan and perform experimental work in this area; e) search, compile relevant information and present works carried out within the scope of the syllabus; f) integration into research.

Contents

Importance of catalysis and mode of operation of catalysts. Overview of catalysis types.
Homogeneous catalysis. Fundamental concepts. Organometallic and coordination chemistry: concepts, fundamental reactions and processes. Role of the metallic center and ligands. Catalytic cycles, kinetic aspects and catalyst regeneration. New trends in homogeneous catalysts and new ligands.
Heterogeneous catalysis. Fundamental concepts. Materials for heterogeneous catalysis. Deactivation and preparation of catalysts. Kinetics and Mechanisms. Spectroscopic characterization of catalysts and surfaces. Introduction to catalytic reactors.
Bio-, electro and photocatalysis. Organocatalysis. Supramolecular catalysis. Immobilized organocatalysts. Ionic liquids as catalysts.
Case studies: applications in chemistry, energy sources from renewable resources and environmental remediation.

Teaching Methods

Teaching is based on theoretical (T), theoretical-practical (TP) and laboratory (PL) classes. In theoretical classes the concepts about the contents of the curricular unit are presented following mainly an expositive methodology, but with many moments of discussion and interactivity. Theoretical-practical classes aim to approach issues and concepts from a practical perspective, the application of acquired knowledge, the development and consolidation of competences, through the analysis, debate and resolution of challenging questions. In PL classes will be applied the subject taught to concrete practical situations, whenever possible within the scope of research projects. Students are further encouraged to integrate and apply knowledge through information gathering, analysis and discussion of a selected theme within the program. The evaluation will take place through a final exam (70%), laboratory performance (10%) and the analysis and discussion of a selected subject (20%).