Doug Stewart
Using platinum-tungsten oxide catalysts for the oxidation of hydrogen.
Email: d.stewart2@ncl.ac.uk
Project title
Tungsten oxide as a co-catalyst for the oxidation of impure hydrogen
Supervisors
Project description
We use platinum-ruthenium catalysts for oxidating hydrogen contaminated with carbon monoxide. But platinum-tungsten oxide catalysts may provide a viable alternative. I will research the potential for this alternative.
The research will provide a detailed understanding of how tungsten oxide enhances the CO tolerance of platinum-based catalysts. To achieve this, I will use a combination of:
- advanced physical and chemical characterisation, and
- electrochemical and spectro-electrochemical analysis
I will use cutting-edge techniques, including:
- Raman and FTIR-coupled electrochemistry
- in-situ reference electrode measurements of operating fuel cells
Finally, I will evaluate the most promising catalysts in real-world conditions. I will determine how they compare to the current state-of-the-art commercial catalysts.
Qualifications
Masters degree in Chemistry from Southampton University