Exploring Selective Oxidation over Copper-Based Porous Catalysts through X-ray Spectroscopy: From Zeolites to MOFs

CFM Colloquium Series

The valorisation of light alkanes into oxygenates is a key challenge in heterogeneous catalysis, with major implications for energy efficiency and sustainability. In particular, the direct conversion of methane to methanol under mild conditions is highly desirable and inspired by copper-based methane monooxygenase enzymes found in nature. While Cu-exchanged zeolites have demonstrated methane activation, their performance is often limited by step-wise operation and insufficient productivity. Copper-functionalized metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) offer greater flexibility in tuning the local environment of Cu active sites. This work highlights the use of in situ/operando X-ray spectroscopy combined with advanced data analysis to elucidate copper speciation, structure, and redox behavior in both Cu-zeolites and Cu-MOF catalysts, enabling deeper insight into structure–activity relationships.