Monitoring heterogeneous catalysts using spectroscopy at the moment they are performing the catalytic event in the liquid-phase is not trivial. Typically, the working principle of these materials is derived from gas-phase and UHV studies, but extrapolation of the data to the real reaction conditions is not risk-free. The interest for studies on ‘liquid-phase’ catalysts is high due to their industrial relevance and the number of spectroscopic methods available for their investigation under real conditions is increasing.<br/>In this invited contribution, the combination of infrared spectroscopy in the internal reflection mode (ATR-IR) and X-ray absorption spectroscopy will be emphasized. The two methods are highly complementary with respect to the type of information they are capable of providing. Some aspects of the chemistry of liquid-phase selective oxidation of alcohols will be described, which range from elaboration of the reaction mechanism in the liquid phase to identification of active sites and to the effect of promotion will be presented. Moreover, further examples of liquid phase processes will be also discussed especially from the perspective of infrared spectroscopy together with strategies for the development of suitable spectroscopy cells for truly combined studies. The aim is to provide examples of the potential of spectroscopic methods for the investigation of heterogeneous catalysts in the liquid-phase.

Watching solid catalysts at work in the liquid phase

256th National Meeting (2018)

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