Several techniques are used to modify catalysts, including:
Doping Doping involves adding small amounts of foreign elements to the catalyst to alter its properties. This can enhance activity or selectivity by creating new active sites or modifying existing ones.
Surface Modification Modifying the surface of a catalyst can change its interaction with reactants. Techniques like functionalization and passivation can improve performance by altering surface properties such as acidity, basicity, or hydrophobicity.
Support Modification The support material can influence the dispersion and stability of active sites. Modifying the support, for example by using different metal oxides or carbon-based materials, can enhance the catalyst's overall performance.
Particle Size Control Controlling the size of catalyst particles can impact their surface area and reactivity. Techniques like nanotechnology are employed to create catalysts with uniform and optimal particle sizes.
