Development of heterogeneous catalytic systems for chemical and environmental engineering processes

The energy transition is the shift from an energy model based on fossil fuels to one based on renewable and clean energy sources (photovoltaic, wind, hydroelectric, geothermal). This is not a simple replacement of energy sources, but rather the radical transformation of a system for the generation, distribution, and consumption of energy. Heterogeneous catalysis is a crucial tool for achieving a sustainable use of resources for energy, chemicals, and materials production, as well as for preserving the environment. The use of heterogeneous catalysts to produce fuels and chemicals reduces energy demand and minimizes the formation of non-recyclable wastes, by increasing the activity and selectivity of the conversion of fossil and renewable resources. The design, implementation, and testing of catalytic systems for three selected reactions have been investigated in detail in this thesis, namely the reforming of H2, the CO2 methanation and the exploitation of lignin through a waste-derived catalyst.