This research project at the University of Houston is supported by the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program. Professor Kevan and his coworkers use electron magnetic resonance and electron spin echo modulation spectrometry to elucidate the structural environment of transition metal ions in microporous and mesoporous oxide materials. These aluminophosphate (AlPO) and silicoaluminophosphate (SAPO) compounds are important catalytic materials, and the work of this project is directed toward understanding their structure as it relates to catalytic function. Nickel and manganese ions in particular will be examined, and newly synthesized hexagonal phase AlPO and SAPO oxides will be emphasized in these studies. The materials investigated in this work have important applications in petroleum refining, and hydrocarbon process chemistry. The use of electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy for the structural elucidation of transition metal ions in oxide materials is the focus of this research project. Nickel and manganese ions incorporated into alumino- and silicoaluminophosphate supports are being examined. Connections between structure and function of these catalytic materials are the expected results of this work, which has important implications for the development of petroleum refining catalysts.
