Spectroscopic techniques applied to process control:the use of vibrational spectroscopy.

Catalysis, and, particularly heterogeneous catalysis, is a key factor in almost all industrial processes, ranging from petrochemical to fine chemicals. The deep understanding of catalysts structure and reaction mechanism is the basis both for the rational design of better catalysts and for the development of more efficient processes. Catalysts characterization and process control are often accomplished by spectroscopic techniques, which are the most used as well as promising tools for these purposes. Vibrational spectroscopies (i.e. IR and Raman) are of widespread use: both in lab as insitu and operando techniques, and in industrial plants as process control tools. The principles of operando IR and Raman spectroscopies will be discussed and a case history will be presented.