The Catalytic Combustion Demonstration Unit
- Page ID
- 3054
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Chemical Concepts Demonstrated
- Heat-based catalysis
- Use of a ceramic as the solid support for a catalyst
Demonstation
Observations
The bottom continues to glow red hot.
Explanation
The catalyst in this situation is the ceramic/metal block. It catalyses the oxidation of whatever fuel that the Bunsen burner happens to be running off of. The product from this oxidation is not flammable, and a match would go out if it were held above the unit.
Catalytic combustion units are used on such devices as automobiles and wood-burning stoves. When the fuel in these devices is combusted, there is a chance that the combustion will be incomplete. Combustion units such as these complete the oxidation of these fuels and, as a result, produce more heat and less pollutants.
Contributors
- Dr. George Bodner (Perdue University)