Sample interview questions: How do you approach evaluating and selecting appropriate catalysts for specific petrochemical reactions?
Sample answer:
Catalyst Evaluation and Selection
1. Reaction Characterization:
– Determine the key reaction parameters (e.g., temperature, pressure, reactants, products).
– Identify the desired catalyst properties (e.g., activity, selectivity, stability).
2. Catalyst Screening:
– Test a range of candidate catalysts using various experimental techniques (e.g., bench-scale reactors, surface characterization).
– Evaluate catalyst performance based on metrics such as conversion, selectivity, yield, and catalyst lifetime.
3. Catalyst Characterization:
– Analyze the physicochemical properties of catalysts to identify active sites, surface morphology, and pore structure.
– Techniques used include X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and temperature-programmed desorption.
4. Reaction Mechanism and Kinetics Studies:
– Investigate the reaction mechanism to determine the role of the catalyst in key steps.
– Use kinetic models to optimize reaction conditions and catalyst performance.
5. Catalyst Optimization:
– Modify catalyst properties (e.g., composition, morphology, synthesis method) to enhance activity, selectivity, or stability.
– Cons… Read full answer
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