Light-Activated Catalyst Revolutionizes Propylene Production

Northwestern University chemists have developed a light-activated catalyst for propylene production. This energy-efficient process promises to lower emissions during the synthesis of this widely used chemical.

Propylene, a key component of polypropylene, finds applications in diverse products. The current synthesis of ethylene and propylene contributes significantly to carbon dioxide emissions, exceeding 900 million tonnes annually.

Breakthrough in Propane Dehydrogenation

The team nanoengineered a copper alloy doped with platinum. This catalyst uses light from LEDs or the sun to convert propane to propylene through propane dehydrogenation (PDH).

Experiments showed improved reactivity at the platinum sites. This enables reactions at temperatures 50°C lower than thermally possible.

Researchers aim to explore other natural gas species. They also want to understand how light modifies chemical pathways for direct methane conversion.