Abstract: Reactant materials for use in the synthesis of compounds comprising a non-metal and hydrogen, and methods of making and using the same are provided. The reactant materials generally comprise first and second non-metals, metals, a cation, and a transition metal, and can be formed and used in reactions occurring at relatively low-pressure conditions using heat energy that can be supplied via solar radiation. In particular, the reactant materials can be used in the synthesis of ammonia and various hydrocarbon compounds using air, water, and sunlight.

Abstract: Reactant materials for use in the synthesis of compounds comprising a non-metal and hydrogen, and methods of making and using the same are provided. The reactant materials generally comprise first and second non-metals, metals, a cation, and a transition metal, and can be formed and used in reactions occurring at relatively low-pressure conditions using heat energy that can be supplied via solar radiation. In particular, the reactant materials can be used in the synthesis of ammonia and various hydrocarbon compounds using air, water, and sunlight.

Abstract: Improved catalytic enzyme preparations are provided which effectively catalyze reactions carried out in organic solvents. The preparations comprise nanoscale solid support particles (e.g., fumed silica or alumina) having enzyme molecules electrostatically adhered to the surfaces of the particles. The preparations are prepared by mixing together solid support particles and enzyme molecules in an aqueous system under pH conditions establishing opposite charges on the support particles and enzyme molecules, respectively. The water is then removed from the system, preferably by pre-freezing followed by lyophilization to yield free-flowing, particulate catalyst particles which can be used in liquid organic reactions or in packed bed reactors.

Abstract: Improved catalytic enzyme preparations are provided which effectively catalyze reactions carried out in organic solvents. The preparations comprise nanoscale solid support particles (e.g., fumed silica or alumina) having enzyme molecules electrostatically adhered to the surfaces of the particles. The preparations are prepared by mixing together solid support particles and enzyme molecules in an aqueous system under pH conditions establishing opposite charges on the support particles and enzyme molecules, respectively. The water is then removed from the system, preferably by pre-freezing followed by lyophilization to yield free-flowing, particulate catalyst particles which can be used in liquid organic reactions or in packed bed reactors.