Preparation of nanofibrous catalysts by electrospinning technique

The main aim of the proposed project is to assess the specific properties of the novel polymeric nanofibrous materials prepared by electrospinning in applications as effective catalyst supports. Other targets of this project will be specifically addressed to the optimization of the electrospinning process parameters concerning properties of the prepared supports, deposition of the catalytically active centers or catalyst precursors, and assessment of the effect of support microstructure on the phenomenological kinetics of model reactions. Studied model reactions will involve both reactions in gas-phase (total oxidation of volatile organic compounds) and liquid-phase (selective hydrogenation of unsaturated carbonyl compounds). Additionally, it will be investigated the possible influence of differences between the polymer surface nature of nanofibers and conventional polymeric catalyst supports on catalytic properties.

Required education and skills:

• Master’s degree in chemical technologies, chemical engineering, or chemistry of materials;
• methodical and creative approach to work;
• willingness to perform experimental work and learn new issues.