Bifunctional Europium for Operando Catalyst Thermometry in an Exothermic Chemical Reaction

Often the reactor or the reaction medium temperature is reported in the field of heterogeneous catalysis, even though it could vary significantly from the reactive catalyst temperature. The influence of the catalyst temperature on the catalytic performance and vice versa is therefore not always accurately known. We here apply EuOCl as both solid catalyst and thermometer, allowing for operando temperature determination. The interplay between reaction conditions and the catalyst temperature dynamics is studied. A maximum temperature difference between the catalyst and oven of +16 degrees C was observed due to the exothermicity of the methane oxychlorination reaction. Heat dissipation by radiation appears dominating compared to convection in this set-up, explaining the observed uniform catalyst bed temperature. Application of operando catalyst thermometry could provide a deeper mechanistic understanding of catalyst performances and allow for safer process operation in chemical industries.

Automated summary

In the field of heterogeneous catalysis, the temperature of the reactor or reaction medium is often reported, but it may vary significantly from the temperature of the reactive catalyst. The interplay between catalyst temperature and catalytic performance is not always accurately known. This study uses EuOCl as both a solid catalyst and a thermometer to determine temperature during operation. The results reveal the dynamics of catalyst temperature in relation to reaction conditions and provide insights into heat dissipation mechanisms. This approach of operando catalyst thermometry can enhance understanding of catalyst performance and improve safety in chemical industries.