Model discrimination and parameter estimation in heterogeneous catalysis

Abstract

Abstract After a brief discussion of the experimental aspects of a kinetic investigation, the paper reviews the methodology of kinetic analysis, for both single and complex reactions. The necessity of statistical testing of the results is emphasized. Special attention is given to methods for estimating parameters in algebraic and differential equations. Sequential methods for the design of an experimental program aiming at optimal discrimination between rival models and optimal parameter estimation are reviewed and illustrated by means of practical examples.