Development of heterogeneous and homogeneous metal oxide catalysts for green industrial processes

Abstract

This work focuses on exploring various catalytic systems pivotal for implementing sustainable chemical processes. Specifically, metal-oxide based catalysts were investigated, with a particular focus on two representative systems: polyoxometalates (POMs) and indium oxide (In₂O₃)-based catalysts. POMs were studied in both liquid-phase reactions, enabling the selective conversion of biomass-derived substrates into lactic and formic acid, and in gas-phase reactions, where their combined acid–redox properties were applied in CO₂ hydrogenation to dimethyl ether. In contrast, In₂O₃-based catalysts were studied for gas-phase hydrogenation from CO2 to methanol. The catalysts were specifically designed, synthesized, and systematically investigated to address critical aspects such as stability, activity under varying conditions, and adaptability to different reaction pathways. These efforts contribute to developing scalable and sustainable solutions for replacing fossil-based feedstocks with renewable alternatives, thereby aligning chemical production with the principles of a circular and climate-neutral economy.