Copper Composite Catalyst Oxidation-State Control for NPG Reactivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing copper-based composite catalysts used in neopentyl glycol production under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions exhibit varying reaction activity based on the oxidation number of copper, necessitating accurate measurement and control of copper composition ratios to enhance catalyst stability and activity.
Innovation Solution
A copper-based composite catalyst with specific copper content and oxidation number ratios (2.5-7.5 at% for Cu(0), 10-50% for Cu(I), and 50-90% for Cu(II)) is determined using XPS spectroscopy, measuring main and satellite peaks to calculate total content and ratios accurately.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If copper-based composite catalyst is used under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions, then high yield of neopentyl glycol is achieved, but accurate measurement of copper oxidation number composition becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex chemical analysis methods with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), an optical/physical measurement method. XPS uses X-ray irradiation to eject photoelectrons from copper atoms, allowing non-contact, surface-specific measurement of oxidation states without disturbing the catalyst's physical structure or requiring complex chemical preparation steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces XPS as an intermediary measurement technique between the catalyst and the analyst. XPS acts as a mediator that converts the internal electronic structure information (oxidation states) into measurable signal intensities through photoelectron emission, enabling indirect but accurate determination of copper composition ratios.
2Reliability
If copper content and oxidation number ratio are not accurately controlled, then catalyst activity varies significantly, but controlling the composition requires precise measurement capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces indirect chemical estimation methods with direct physical measurement using XPS. The technique provides quantitative data on copper oxidation states through photoelectron signal intensities, enabling precise control and consistent reproduction of catalyst composition ratios.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes a feedback loop where XPS measurement results are used to adjust and optimize catalyst composition. By measuring the actual oxidation number ratios and comparing them with target values, the catalyst preparation process can be iteratively improved to achieve consistent and reliable catalyst activity.
3Temperature
If conventional copper-based catalyst is used, then high-temperature and high-pressure reaction conditions are required, but catalyst strength and stability become critical factors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the copper oxidation number composition ratios as a key parameter to enhance catalyst strength. By controlling the proportions of different oxidation states (Cu⁰, Cu⁺, Cu²⁺) through XPS-guided preparation, the catalyst achieves both high strength and high-temperature stability without requiring excessive temperature increases.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The catalyst exhibits high strength, stability, and fast hydrogen consumption rate with minimal copper elution, improving reactivity and reducing production costs in neopentyl glycol synthesis.
Implementation Method 1
An XPS spectrum is obtained for the surface of the copper-based composite catalyst... the total content (at%) of copper and the ratio (%) of copper with oxidation numbers of 0 and 1 and copper with an oxidation number of 2 are determined using the area of the XPS spectrum
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a copper-based composite catalyst and a method for discriminating the same, characterized in that it has a specific content of copper on its surface and a specific ratio depending on the oxidation number of copper. The copper-based composite catalyst according to the present disclosure has almost no change in strength and has excellent reactivity when used in the preparation of neopentyl glycol (NPG).