Miriam P Leffler

Title: Innovations of Miriam P. Leffler

Introduction

Miriam P. Leffler is an accomplished inventor based in Manchester, Connecticut. She holds 2 patents that showcase her expertise in the field of catalysis and materials science. Her work has significant implications for fuel processing systems, particularly in enhancing catalytic performance.

Latest Patents

One of her latest patents involves a ceria-based mixed-metal oxide structure, which serves as a catalyst support, co-catalyst, and getter. This innovative material features a large surface area per weight, typically exceeding 150 m/g, and consists of nanocrystallites with diameters of less than 4 nm. The structure includes pores larger than the nanocrystallites, with diameters ranging from 4 to about 9 nm. The ratio of pore volumes to skeletal structure volumes is typically less than about 2.5, and the surface area per unit volume of the oxide material exceeds 320 m/cm. This design minimizes internal mass transfer resistance and maximizes effective surface area for reaction activity. The mixed metal oxide is ceria-based and includes zirconium (Zr) and/or hafnium (Hf), produced through a novel co-precipitation process. A highly dispersed catalyst metal, often a noble metal like platinum (Pt), can be loaded onto the mixed metal oxide support after a selected acid surface treatment. The appropriate ratioing of cerium and other metal constituents helps retain a cubic phase and enhances catalytic performance. Additionally, rhenium can be loaded onto the mixed-metal oxide support to further increase catalyst activity. This metal-loaded mixed-metal oxide catalyst is particularly applicable in water gas shift reactions associated with fuel processing systems, such as fuel cells.

Career Highlights

Miriam has worked with notable companies, including UTC Power Corporation and UTC Fuel Cells, LLC. Her contributions in these organizations have been pivotal in advancing technologies related to fuel cells and catalysis.

Collaborations

Miriam has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Fangxia Feng and Rhonda R. Willigan, to further her research and innovations in the field.

Conclusion

Miriam P. Leffler's contributions to the field of catalysis and her innovative patents highlight her significant role as an inventor. Her work continues to influence advancements in fuel processing technologies.