Central Theme of Research
Professor Bell is interested in understanding the fundamental relationships between the structure and composition of heterogeneous catalysts and their performance. The study of reaction mechanisms and the identification of factors limiting the activity and selectivity of catalysts are also objectives of his research. Reaction systems being investigated include the synthesis of oxygenated compounds from COx (x = 1, 2), the conversion of alkenes to olefins and oxygenated products under oxidizing conditions, the reduction of nitric oxide under oxidizing conditions, conversion of biomass to fuels, and the electrochemical reduction of water and carbon dioxide to hydrogen and carbon dioxide.
The objectives of his program are pursued through a combination of experimental and theoretical methods. Spectroscopic techniques, including IR, Raman, NMR, UV-Visible, XANES, and EXAFS, are used to characterize catalyst structure and adsorbed species under actual conditions of catalysis. Isotopic tracers and temperature-programmed adsorption and reaction techniques are used to elucidate the pathways via which catalyzed reactions occur. Quantum chemical calculations are conducted to define the structure and energetic of adsorbed species and the pathways by which such species are transformed. The combined use of theory and experimental methods enables the attainment of a deeper understanding of the core issues of interest than can be achieved by the use of either approach alone. In pursuing his research, Professor Bell draws upon 40 years of experience in the pursuit of fundamental issues relevant to catalysis. He is the author or co-author of over 513 technical publications.
Office: 510-642-1536, Lab: 510-643-3536
