Report on the master thesis of Eliska Mazakova
“Investigation of Supported Transition Metal Nanoparticle Catalysts for the Hydrogenation of Aldol Condensation Products from Bio-Derived Aldehydes. “
18.05.2026
Miss Mazakova carried out her Master’s thesis in my research group (Technical Catalysis at TU Wien, Institute of Materials Chemistry). She investigated transition metal nanoparticles (Cu, Ni, and Pt) supported on layered double oxides (LDOs) for the selective hydrogenation of benzylideneacetone. This reaction is a model reaction for the hydrogenation of aldol condensation products, which is of high interest for the transition towards a more sustainable production of chemicals and fuels.
Miss Mazakova synthesized the materials by different approaches (co-precipitation vs impregnation of the LDO with the metal nanoparticles from soluble precursor salts), and performed the catalytic test reactions in a fixed-bed flow reactor. Furthermore, she characterized the materials before and after reaction by to investigate relationships between structure, composition and catalytic properties, as well as potential changes under reaction conditions.
In her work, she focused on three aspects: (i) the influence of the synthesis method, (ii) the influence of the nature of the transition metal, and (iii) the stability and deactivation of the catalysts. Characterization was carried out using N2 physisorption, X-ray diffraction, SEM-EDX, and temperature-programmed reduction in H2.
Miss Mazakova has carried out an excellent work in her Master’s thesis. She has acquired a very good understanding of the subject matter and has a very good command of the methods used. Her findings have led to new insights and will be the basis for further investigations. The thesis clearly sets out the theoretical background, the methods used and the results of the investigations.
I award the Master’s thesis the best grade ‘Very Good’ (1).
Sincerely,
Karin Föttinger

The diploma thesis deals with the current topic of developing heterogeneous catalysts based on transition metal nanoparticles supported on layered double oxides (LDOs) for the selective hydrogenation. The topic is highly interesting and timely, particularly in view of the growing interest in catalytic processes for biomass conversion and in the hydrogenation of aldol condensation products aimed at a more sustainable production of chemicals and fuels.
The theoretical part of the thesis provides a clear overview of LDOs a transition metals in heterogeneous catalysis. At the same time, it appropriately places the investigated topic within the context of the current state of research.
The experimental part is systematic and carried out at a very good professional level. The student focused on the preparation of catalysts using two different synthesis methods and their characterization by means of appropriately selected techniques, including XRD, H2-TPR, nitrogen physisorption, and SEM-EDS.
The main contribution of the thesis lies in demonstrating the high efficiency of catalysts based on Cu incorporated into the Zn–Al LDO structure, which exhibited both high conversion and high selectivity towards saturated alcohols. For greater completeness, it would have been appropriate to discuss the potential advantages and limitations of Zn–Mg–Al LDO in comparison with Zn–Al LDO, which was preferred by the author for further investigation.
From a formal point of view, the thesis is well organized, written in an appropriate scientific style, and shows a logical continuity between individual chapters. The author demonstrated the ability to conduct independent experimental work, interpret results, and work with scientific literature. The fact that the thesis was carried out at a foreign institution (Vienna University of Technology) further demonstrates the author’s ability to adapt to an international research environment and to solve scientific tasks independently. Minor typographical errors do not detract from the overall quality of the thesis.
I recommend the thesis for defense and propose the grade A. Topics for thesis defence:

1. How do you explain the significantly higher activity of the catalyst prepared by copper co-precipitation compared to the impregnated catalysts? What role might the incorporation of Cu into the Zn–Al LDO structure have played?
2. Zn–Al LDO was selected for further modification due to its higher specific surface area compared to Zn–Al–Mg LDO. Is specific surface area truly the key parameter for the application of nanoparticles in catalysts?
3. How could catalyst regeneration be achieved during long-term operation when deactivation occurs due to humin formation? Furthermore, how would you experimentally confirm the presence of humins on the catalyst surface?