| Three important reactions were studied by in situ infrared spectroscopy/mass spectrometry: (i) hydroformylation via hydrogen donors, (ii) NO-CO reaction, and (iii) the photocatalytic reduction of CO2 with H2O. This study explores the catalytic properties of Rh and Pd and their versatility in catalyzing these very different reactions. These reactions are related to the energy/transportation industry in different aspects and have environmental implications as well. Understanding the reactivity of hydrogen donors in the hydroformylation reaction may assist in devising a selective pathway for the production of fuel from syngas. This would provide an alternative to oil refining for fuel production. NO and CO, both air pollutants, are products of incomplete combustion. It is necessary to develop a catalyst that can handle cycling of reactant mixtures between oxidizing and reducing conditions. Catalysts that include ceria have shown the ability to function under such conditions and thus will be the focus of this work. Rh- and Pd-based catalysts, as well as others, are used to catalyze photoconversion of CO 2/H2O to hydrocarbons. This reaction is important because it provides for greenhouse gas remediation while serving as a source of fuel production.; Very little, if anything, is known about the active intermediates/reaction pathways involved in these reactions, especially on the catalysts of interest. The application of in situ IR coupled with mass spectrometry is a novel experimental approach that may provide the means to unravel the reaction mechanisms and active sites. This fundamental research can provide a scientific basis for developing better catalysts.; It was found that Rh/C and Rh/CeO2 were active for the dehydrogenation of isopropanol while Rh/C was active for the dehydrogenation of 1,4 cyclohexadiene. However, this hydrogen was inactive for propionaldehyde formation.; Linear NO and linear/bridged CO on Pd0 sites are active adsorbates for the NOCO reaction. Ceria minimizes the effect of the oxidizing (O2) and reducing agent (CO) on the adsorbates on Ce-Pd/Al 2O3 at 673 K.; The in situ IR technique was successful for monitoring adsorbate formation only on Cu/TiO2 and Rh/TiO2 catalysts during photocatalysis. Bridged bidentate carbonate is the probable intermediate for product formation. |
