Visualizing Catalytic Dynamics Processes via Synchrotron Radiation Multitechniques

The importance of catalysts today as workhorses in most modern industrial fields cannot be downplayed. As a result, rational design and engineering of targeted catalysts have emerged as key objectives and are dependent on in-depth understanding of complex catalytic dynamics. Synchrotron radiation (SR) light sources with rich advanced experimental methods are being recognized as a comprehensive characterization platform, which can draw a full picture on such multiparameter-involved catalysis under actual working conditions. Herein, the recent progress of catalytic dynamics process studied by the means of various SR techniques is summarized. In particular, SR-based spectroscopic, scattering, and imaging investigations on true catalysts are first introduced with the potential of in situ and operando characterizations. Apparently, the limitations from single SR technique naturally prompt a simple combination of SR techniques to better understand the whole catalysis process. Moreover, the discrepancies among various online testing facilities and batches of samples, along with random/systematic errors introduced by traditional intermittent/asynchronous measurement make it imperative to develop more prolific systems, complementary of multiple SR techniques for deep probing of dynamic catalytic processes. It is believed that the booming new light sources can further enrich the current multiple SR techniques, and thus may realize the true visualization on future catalytic dynamic processes.

Automated summary

The importance of catalysts in modern industrial fields cannot be underestimated. Rational design and engineering of targeted catalysts require in-depth understanding of complex catalytic dynamics. Synchrotron radiation (SR) light sources with advanced experimental methods have become a comprehensive characterization platform for studying catalysis under actual working conditions. This article summarizes the recent progress of catalytic dynamics process studied using various SR techniques, and emphasizes the need for a combination of multiple SR techniques to better understand the whole catalysis process. The development of new light sources is expected to enrich the current multiple SR techniques and visualize future catalytic dynamic processes.