We work on environmental and climate friendly novel chemical technologies. Our current research projects focus on the reduction of emissions of greenhouse gases (CO2, CH4, N2O) and local pollutants (NOx, particulate matter etc.) from processes in chemical industry, traffic, transportation, and the energy sector. Aside from developing advanced experimental tools for a better understanding of chemical reactors, we give a special emphasis on mathematical modeling and numerical simulation of technical processes.
The Deutschmann research group is part of the Institute for Chemical Technology and Polymer Chemistry (ITCP) and belongs to both the Faculty of Chemistry and Biosciences and the Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering within Division I at KIT.
In catalysis research, we are closely linked to the IKFT and the Grunwaldt group. Our joint work on emission control is part of the Exhaust Gas Center Karlsruhe and the CRC 1441 TrackAct. In the ENERMAT laboratory, we study fuel and electrolysis cells. Within the CRC/TRR150 and Clean Circles, we collaborate with TU Darmstadt on reactive flowsand carbon-free chemical energy carriers, respectively.
In a recently published article in ACS Catalysis, we present two new sets of kinetic parameters that accurately simulate the water inhibition effect during methane oxidation on PdO catalysts supported over SnO2 and ZrO2. These parameters were optimized using an automated optimization routine in conjunction with the DETCHEMPBR simulation code. The study provides a detailed analysis of the reaction mechanism, highlighting the influence of the support materials on the reaction pathways at the PdO surface. 08.05.2025
In a collaborative project with the Institute of Mechanical Process Engineering and Mechanics and the Engler-Bunte-Institute our team is exploring iron powder as a carbon-free chemical energy carrier. The project aims to deepen the understanding of the reduction of iron oxide particles with hydrogen - a key step in the storage cycle. By combining experimental studies, detailed particle characterization, and advanced modeling and simulation, the project seeks to uncover the complex reaction mechanisms and transport processes involved. The insights gained will lay the groundwork for optimizing the redox cyclability of iron particles and advancing their use in sustainable energy storage. 14.04.2025
The paper for our newly developed application, CaRIn (Catalysis Research with Infrared Spectroscopy), introduces a tool for real-time adjustment of peak broadening in simulated infrared spectra using Gaussian functions. Integrated within the CaRMeN platform, it enhances the comparability of experimental and theoretical spectra while streamlining workflows with a built-in spectral database. This innovation improves the accuracy and usability of computational spectroscopy in catalysis research. 20.03.2025
Our paper, Micron-sized iron particles as energy carrier: Cycling experiments in a fixed-bed reactor, received an Honorable Mention in the Low Carbon Technology Colloquium for The Combustion Institute’s 40th International Symposium – Emphasizing Energy Transition. Carola Kuhn presented our research at the International Combustion Symposium in Milan, which explores the potential of iron powder as a recyclable energy carrier, exploring oxidation and reduction processes in a fixed-bed reactor. This recognition underscores the importance of iron-based energy storage for a sustainable future. 26.02.2025
An interdisciplinary consortium of partners from industry and academia aims at developing robust hydrogen combustion engine applications that allow to decarbonize the off-road sector. We are happy to contribute to these efforts with the development of innovative catalysts for efficient emission control. 27.11.2024
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Iron can be used in a cyclic process as a carbon-free energy carrier. Energy release occurs through the oxidation of iron with air, resulting in the formation of iron oxides. Conversely, energy storage is achieved through the reduction of iron oxides using green hydrogen. Our recently published study primarily investigates the oxidation behavior of iron powders under mild conditions and examines the impact of cyclic operations. Detailed insights into the processes are obtained through thermogravimetric analysis, wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS), Mössbauer spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). 27.09.2024
Prof. Dr. Olaf Deutschmann
ITCP
Email: deutschmann ∂does-not-exist.kit edu
Secretary:
Tel. +49 721 608 43064
Fax +49 721 608 44805