# Collaborative Research: Catalysis on crowded surfaces: the effects of co-adsorbates on CO and CO2 hydrogenation mechanisms

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Colorado School of Mines (CO) · $344,016

## Abstract

Converting hydrogen and carbon-containing feedstocks, such as CO and CO2, to synthetic fuels would augment US energy security and independence. Specifically, CO and CO2 hydrogenation are critical components in the industrial production of methanol, one of the most important platform chemicals in the chemical industry.  Improving our understanding of these reactions will improve the competitiveness of the US chemical industry while potentially lowering energy and capital costs.  These reactions rely on catalytic conversion processes that occur at low temperatures and high pressures.  The high pressure drives the CO and CO2 molecules onto the metal catalyst surface, resulting in crowded surfaces, where molecular interactions among bound intermediates play a key role in changing the reaction dynamics and activating strong chemical bonds. This project will examine the mechanistic role of densely covered surfaces in mediating the various CO and CO2 hydrogenation reactions.  The effort will focus on two benchmark systems:  methanol synthesis on Cu-based catalysts and methanation on Ni-based catalysts.  These systems will be probed with complementary kinetic, spectroscopic, isotopic, and computational studies examining the role of these extended catalytic microenvironments. Educational videos discussing scientific principles and methods in catalysis research broadcast over social media channels accessible to researchers of all backgrounds will provide training and broaden awareness 

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2453098
- **Awardee organization:** Colorado School of Mines (CO)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** JW2NGMP4NMA3
- **PI:** Stephanie Kwon
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** —
- **Estimated total:** $344,016
- **Funds obligated:** $344,016
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 09/15/2025 → 08/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2453098

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2453098, Collaborative Research: Catalysis on crowded surfaces: the effects of co-adsorbates on CO and CO2 hydrogenation mechanisms. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-07 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2453098. Licensed CC0.

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