Jason Loiland
Graduate Student 2011-2016
Education: University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC)
Thesis Topic/Title: Mechanisms of Nitric Oxide Oxidation over Zeolite Catalysts
Thesis Description: My research project aims to establish the reaction mechanism of nitric oxide (NO) oxidation over zeolite catalysts as it relates to the ammonia selective catalytic reduction (SCR) of nitrogen oxide (NOx) pollutants from the combustion of fossil fuels. SCR is an efficient means of converting these harmful emissions into environmentally benign products (nitrogen and water), and zeolites have shown excellent ability to catalyze the reaction. The overall efficiency of the process is raised when NO and NO2 are present in equimolar amounts, and oxidation of NO prior to the SCR reaction is necessary to raise reaction rates. Infrared spectroscopy is used to measure concentrations, obtain reaction rates, and observe surface species on the zeolite that may be important reaction intermediates.
Other fun facts or hobbies: Swimming, Music, Basketball