METAL OXIDE SUPPORTED ATOMIC QUANTUM CLUSTERS (AQCs) CATALYSTS AS OXYGEN CARRIERS FOR CHEMICAL LOOPING PROCESSES

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention describes specially designed catalysts made from very small clusters of 3-10 metal atoms (called atomic quantum clusters, or AQCs) supported on metal oxides. These catalysts are used as highly efficient oxygen carriers in chemical looping technologies. By facilitating fast and efficient oxygen transfer at lower temperatures, these AQCs enable processes such as fuel oxidation, hydrogen production, and other reactions involving oxygen transfer. The invention focuses on the improved performance, durability, and efficiency of these catalysts in various chemical looping applications, often enabling clean energy conversion and carbon capture.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Chemical looping combustion for cleaner energy generation with inherent carbon capture.
• Production of hydrogen via thermochemical or photochemical water-splitting.
• Syngas and chemical production through selective oxidation and reforming processes.
• Efficient fuel oxidation (such as methane or other hydrocarbons) without direct contact with oxygen, enabling CO2 capture.
• Water-gas shift reaction and CO2 reduction to produce valuable chemicals or fuels.
• Photothermal catalytic systems using visible or solar light for sustainable fuel production.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Much faster and more efficient catalytic cycles due to low activation energy of AQCs.
• Lower operational temperatures, reducing energy input and increasing catalyst durability.
• Improved oxygen carrying capacity and more reversible redox cycles, leading to higher productivity and less material degradation.
• Compatibility with solar or visible light irradiation, enabling sustainable and renewable energy integration.
• Facilitation of direct CO2 or water splitting for clean hydrogen or hydrocarbon generation.
• Reduced greenhouse gas emissions and support for carbon capture schemes in industrial processes.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The present invention refers to a process comprising 3-10 metal atoms atomic quantum clusters (AQCs) supported on metal oxides as catalysts for oxygen release; which can be applied to the oxidation of fuels. Additionally, the present invention refers to the use of said 3-10 metal atoms AQCs supported on metal oxides as oxygen carriers in chemical looping reactions, and to catalysts and chemical compositions comprising said 3-10 metal atoms AQCs supported on metal oxides.