The influence of graphite on chemical reactions: From on-surface characterization to bulk processes

Promovendus/a: Brent Daelemans

Promotor(en): Prof. dr. Steven De Feyter, Prof. dr. Wim Dehaen

Catalysis focuses on the increase of the rate and selectivity of chemical reactions, which is a core concept in the chemical industry. A lot of these catalysts consist of toxic metals and it would be a lot more sustainable if a harmless material could be used. In this context, carbon materials are gaining interest, being more sustainable and affordable than metal-based catalysts. Catalysis by inert two-dimensional (2D) carbon nanomaterials, such as high-quality graphene or graphite, is interesting from the viewpoint of the large surface area provided and as they can be characterized using advanced characterization techniques available in surface science, including microscopy and spectroscopy tools. The project focused on exploring the potential of graphite powder to affect solution-based chemical reactions using a unique approach, involving a combination of state-of-the-art microscopy techniques and experiments in bulk. This combination allowed us to gain more insight in the adsorption and separation processes with graphitic materials and in the effect of these processes on chemical reactions. Additionally, new catalysts using covalent functionalization on the graphite surface were prepared and analyzed. The combination of on-surface and in bulk characterization allowed us to gain a more profound insight in the prepared materials.