Heterogeneous Catalysis
A.Y. 2025/2026
Learning objectives
The course aims to illustrate the heterogeneous catalysis in all its different aspects. Catalysts and catalytic processes for the industrial and for environmental remediation processes, including photocatalysis, will be described. Basic information on the design, preparation methods, bulk and surface catalyst properties, and development of industrial catalysts and catalytic processes will be illustrated.
Expected learning outcomes
At the end of the course, students will be able to understand the role of heterogeneous solids in given reactions, to know the main techniques suitable for characterize the surface and bulk properties of heterogeneous catalysts and to know the main surface reaction mechanisms by making laboratory tests. From the several illustrated case history, the students should grow a positive vision on the importance of heterogeneous catalysis in the industrial and environmental processes.
Lesson period: Second semester
Assessment methods: Esame
Assessment result: voto verbalizzato in trentesimi
Single course
This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.
Course syllabus and organization
Single session
Responsible
Lesson period
Second semester
Course syllabus
Definition of catalyst and catalytic reaction. Concepts of activity, selectivity, productivity, and yield of a catalyst. Kinetics and elemental steps: diffusion, adsorption, chemical reaction, and desorption. Catalytic action limited by external and internal diffusion. Development of industrial catalyst: design and preparation methods (unit operations for the preparation of bulk and supported catalysts, including the catalyst form); catalytic materials (active phase, supports, and promoters). Determination of bulk and surface catalyst properties by spectroscopic, thermal analysis, chemical, and X-ray-based techniques. Catalyst aging: deactivation, poisoning, and actions for the regeneration of spent catalysts.
Photocatalysis and photocatalyst: concepts and applications in several reactions for energy production and for environmental depollution.
Case histories: catalyst applications in the field of environmental problems resolution and sustainable chemistry.
Photocatalysis and photocatalyst: concepts and applications in several reactions for energy production and for environmental depollution.
Case histories: catalyst applications in the field of environmental problems resolution and sustainable chemistry.
Prerequisites for admission
Knowledge of basic thermodynamic and kinetic concepts.
The thermodynamic and kinetic concepts that must be acquired by students are provided in some courses of the three-year degree course in Chimica Industriale or in similar courses of other scientific degree courses.
The thermodynamic and kinetic concepts that must be acquired by students are provided in some courses of the three-year degree course in Chimica Industriale or in similar courses of other scientific degree courses.
Teaching methods
The course is structured into two modules, A and B, each corresponding to 3 CFU and delivered through frontal lectures.
The teaching approach includes both traditional lectures, aimed at providing a solid theoretical foundation on the topics covered, and the discussion of case studies. These case studies are based on some of the most relevant and influential scientific articles published in recent years, allowing students to connect theoretical concepts with real research developments in the field.
The teaching approach includes both traditional lectures, aimed at providing a solid theoretical foundation on the topics covered, and the discussion of case studies. These case studies are based on some of the most relevant and influential scientific articles published in recent years, allowing students to connect theoretical concepts with real research developments in the field.
Teaching Resources
J.M. Thomas, W.J. Thomas, Principles and Practice of Heterogeneous Catalysis, VCH, Weinheim, 1997 (ISBN 3-527-29239-X);
R.A. Sheldon, I. Arends, U. Hanefeld, Green Chemistry and Catalysis Wiley-VCH, Weinheim, 2007 (ISBN: 978-3-527-30715-9);
R.A. Sheldon, I. Arends, U. Hanefeld, Green Chemistry and Catalysis Wiley-VCH, Weinheim, 2007 (ISBN: 978-3-527-30715-9);
Assessment methods and Criteria
An oral exam is scheduled. The exam will cover all topics from Modules A and B discussed in class.
During the exam, students must demonstrate a solid understanding of any topic in heterogeneous catalysis covered during the course and be able to engage in a discussion with the teachers on specific catalytic aspects.
Students may also choose to present and discuss scientific articles related to topics of their interest.
The final grade for the exam will be expressed on a scale of thirty.
During the exam, students must demonstrate a solid understanding of any topic in heterogeneous catalysis covered during the course and be able to engage in a discussion with the teachers on specific catalytic aspects.
Students may also choose to present and discuss scientific articles related to topics of their interest.
The final grade for the exam will be expressed on a scale of thirty.
CHIM/02 - PHYSICAL CHEMISTRY - University credits: 6
Lessons: 48 hours
Professors:
Chiarello Gian Luca, Gervasini Antonella
Educational website(s)
Professor(s)
Reception:
On request by e-mail
Room R25S, B side of Chemistry Department