Course overview
This course will introduce concepts and history of catalysis, to introduce traditional and advanced functional and nanoscale materials for diverse catalytic applications in bio-production, environmental purification, clean fuel product, and petrochemical industrial processes. The materials include metals, metal alloys, zeolites, metal oxides, nanocarbon, microporous and mesoporous materials, and carbonaceous materials. The course will highlight the significance of catalyst materials engineering in modern society, and contextualise the selection of catalysts on the basis of their characteristics and end-use applications.
Course learning outcomes
- Explain the fundamental principles of materials science and engineering, including types, properties, and structure–function relationships relevant to catalytic systems.
- Describe the concepts, history, and significance of catalysis, recognising its central role in industrial, energy, health, and environmental processes.
- Analyse and formulate engineering problems related to catalytic materials and processes and propose suitable solutions.
- Apply knowledge of functional and nanostructured materials to the design and development of catalysts for fuel production, energy conversion, pollution control, and sustainable production.
- Evaluate recent advances and emerging applications of catalytic materials in areas such as disinfection, therapies, clean fuel generation, waste upgrading, water purification, and electrochemistry.
- Communicate technical findings effectively, both in written and oral formats, demonstrating professional standards of reporting and presentation in materials and catalysis engineering.