Heterogeneous Catalysis

We are tackling some of the biggest challenges facing industry and society through world-leading research in heterogeneous catalysis. By designing, characterising and applying advanced solid catalysts, we are helping to create cleaner, more sustainable chemical processes and technologies.

Much of this work is driven by the Cardiff Catalysis Institute (CCI), where we bring together expertise from chemistry and related disciplines to deepen our understanding of catalytic processes and turn discoveries into real-world solutions.

This video shows how we work with industry partners to develop new applications for catalysis research.

Cardiff Catalysis Institute video

Research

Our research spans every stage of catalyst development, including:

catalyst synthesis and design
surface science
reaction engineering
advanced catalyst characterisation
computational modelling and simulation

We use state-of-the-art experimental and computational techniques to understand how catalyst structure and composition influence activity, selectivity and stability. This enables us to reveal catalytic mechanisms at the molecular level and develop more effective catalytic materials.

Driving sustainable manufacturing

We are developing catalytic technologies that support the transition to a low-carbon, sustainable chemical industry.

Our research focuses on:

carbon dioxide conversion and utilisation
sustainable synthetic fuels
cleaner oxidation and hydrogenation processes
replacing scarce, toxic and geopolitically sensitive metals in catalytic systems

Through close partnerships with industry, we translate fundamental research into practical solutions that contribute to decarbonisation and more sustainable manufacturing.

International expertise in nanoparticle catalysis

We have an internationally recognised reputation for research on supported gold and bimetallic nanoparticles. By exploring their unique catalytic properties, we are creating new opportunities for a range of industrially important reactions.

This strength is enhanced by collaborations across surface science, electrochemistry, organic chemistry and biological chemistry. By working across disciplines, we accelerate innovation and develop catalytic solutions with greater impact.