Theme

​

The catalyst is, in itself, a complex material. It is usually a porous inorganic solid composed of various compounds that are often distributed as nano-sized particles over a heterogeneous surface. The catalytic reactions are also complex because they include many reaction steps that often compete. The reaction product is often a multicomponent mixture that requires the availability of advanced analytical tools for its characterization. The overall catalytic system is not easy to study because its performance often depends on reaction conditions and because catalytic activity may change over time. In addition, a catalyst may eventually deactivate during the reaction process. The science of heterogeneous catalysis has flourished for over more than a century. Its processes have contributed significantly to our modern way of life by enabling the production of indispensable commodities such as fuel and fertilizers. 

                                                                                               -   Preface, Modern Heterogeneous Catalysis, Rutger van Santen