Rare and expensive Materials - Catalysis

Introduction to Catalysis and Rare Materials

Catalysis is a crucial process in chemical reactions, where catalysts are used to accelerate the rate of reactions without being consumed in the process. However, many effective catalysts are made from rare and expensive materials, posing challenges for both economic and environmental sustainability.

Why are some catalytic materials rare and expensive?

Many highly active catalysts are derived from precious metals such as platinum, palladium, rhodium, and iridium. These materials are rare in the Earth's crust and require extensive mining and refining processes, making them expensive. Additionally, the demand for these metals in various industries, including automotive, electronics, and jewelry, further drives up their cost.

What are the applications of these rare materials in catalysis?

Rare and expensive catalytic materials are employed in a variety of critical applications:
Automotive Catalysts: Platinum, palladium, and rhodium are essential in catalytic converters to reduce harmful emissions from internal combustion engines.
Chemical Industry: These metals are used in processes like hydrogenation, dehydrogenation, and oxidation reactions, which are fundamental in producing chemicals and pharmaceuticals.



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