Fundamentals of Heterogeneous Catalysis: a Study of N2O Mitigation Reaction Over Modified Zeolite Catalysts

Abstract

This article provides the fundamental understanding of heterogeneous catalysis and the importance
of nitrous oxide (N2O) conversion reactions. Solid catalysts play an important role in the reduction
of several greenhouse gases. In developing countries, the topic of N2O mitigation reactions is
relatively new and needs review particularly for early stage researchers. In this work, reaction
catalysis, zeolite as a prominent catalyst support, and the importance of N2O dissociation reactions
are briefly discussed. After an overview of global warming, the discussions continue to introduce
the principles of reaction catalysis. Furthermore, N2O is a potent greenhouse gas, whereas its
emissions into the environment can be reduced when reacted over active and selective solid
catalysts. Presently, Fe-ZSM-5 is commercially used catalyst for N2O conversion reactions.
Zeolites, for example, H-ZSM-5 (HnAlnSi96-nO192.16H2O) are aluminosilicate catalyst support with
unique physicochemical properties. Catalytic activity of H-ZSM-5 may vary when loaded with
metals or treated with acid/base solutions. The selectivity of reaction product changes when the
same catalyst support is loaded with different metals.