Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of preparing a nano-sized, iron-based catalyst, the method comprising: mixing a solution containing an iron salt with a surfactant to form a mixture; adding a basic salt solution comprising a salt of element selected from the group consisting of: alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, transition metals of groups 3 to 7 and 9 to 11 of the Periodic Table of Elements, lanthanides, and combinations of elements thereof, to the mixture to form a precipitate; and calcining said precipitate to form the iron-based catalyst, said iron-based catalyst at least partially comprising said element of said basic salt. The present invention also relates to a nano-sized, iron-based catalyst prepared by the above method and a process for the production of light olefins using the nano-sized, iron-based catalyst.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a hybrid iron nanoparticle catalyst comprising: i) 1 to 50 wt. % nanoparticles comprising iron and at least one of a metal M selected from the group consisting of alkali metals, alkaline earth metals, transition metals of groups 3 to 7 and 9 to 11 of the Periodic Table of Elements, lanthanides and combinations of M thereof; and ii) 50 to 99 wt. % of an aluminosilicate or silicoaluminophosphate zeolite, based on the total weight of the catalyst, wherein said nanoparticle has a diameter of about 2 to 50 nm. The present invention also relates to a method of preparing the hybrid iron nanoparticle catalyst and a process for the production of light olefins using the hybrid iron nanoparticle catalyst.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of functionalizing a carbon material. A carbon material is contacted with a carboxylic acid, whereby a mixture is formed. The mixture is heated for a suitable period of time at a temperature below the thermal decomposition temperature of the carbon material.