Dr. S. Ghadamgahi
Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
Title: Advancements in Precious Metals: A Novel Approach to Efficient Catalysis
Abstract:
Recent breakthroughs in
precious metal catalysis have unveiled exciting opportunities for enhancing
catalytic efficiency and selectivity across various chemical reactions.
Notably, a pioneering study investigates the utilization of gold-based
nanocatalysts for selective preferential CO oxidation in H2-containing
atmospheres. The approach involves synthesizing small gold nanoparticles
immobilized on GO–CeO2 nanocomposites through ball milling and
hydrothermal methods (Au/GO–CeO2 nanocatalyst). Subssequent activation at elevated temperatures in an Ar atmosphere
optimizes the catalytic activity, resulting in impressive conversion rates and
selectivity toward CO2.
Similarly, the aerobic oxidation of benzyl alcohol leverages Au101(PPh3)21Cl5 nanoparticles
supported on Norit-activated carbon (Au101/AC nanocatalyst). Under
mild conditions, this catalyst achieves full conversion of benzyl alcohol. The
selectivity favours methyl benzoate and benzoic acid, with reaction parameters,
such as temperature, solvent, and base concentration, playing crucial roles.
In another significant advancement, Ag/GO-J
nanocatalysts emerge as effective agents for dye removal from wastewater. By
combining graphene oxide with Juglans Nigra leaf extract and Ag particles,
these composites exhibit remarkable performance when exposed to
UV-Vis light. Removing dyes like methyl blue and methyl orange
underscores nanostructured materials' versatility and environmental benefits.
These studies underscore the importance of nanocatalyst fabrications,
precise reaction conditions, and novel material exploration in achieving
superior catalytic performance and sustainable industrial applications. The
future of precious metal catalysis holds immense promise, driving innovation and
efficiency.
Biography:
Dr. Ghadamgahi embarked on her academic journey in 2015, joining the research team of Prof. Khodadi and Prof. Mortazavi at the University of Tehran (UT). As a post-fellow, her focus centered on heterogeneous nanocatalysts-nanocomposites in gas-phase reactions.
Her path led her to complete a Ph.D. program at the University of Canterbury (UC), where she worked under the guidance of Dr. Golovko and Prof. Williamson. During her doctoral studies, she delved into extensive research on heterogeneous nanocatalysts within the context of liquidphase reactions. Beyond research, she contributed to the academic community by tutoring chemistry labs.
Before UC, Dr. Ghadamgahi pursued a master’s degree in analytical chemistry with Pro. Farhadi’s team at Urmia University. Her teaching experience expanded as she lectured on chemistry topics at Azad University in Tehran Branch.
Dr. Ghadamgahi’s passion lies in the fabrication, application, and characterization of heterogeneous catalysts and photocatalysts. Her work spans a diverse array of smart materials, including natural and artificial polymers, complexes, clusters, composites, particles, colloids, catalysts, photocatalysts, and most recently smart concretes.