Catalysis can significantly reduce the environmental impact of chemical processes through various mechanisms:
Selective Catalysis: By increasing the selectivity towards desired products, catalysts minimize the production of unwanted by-products, reducing waste. Energy Efficiency: Catalysts lower the activation energy of reactions, allowing them to proceed at lower temperatures and pressures, which saves energy. Emission Reduction: Catalysts can convert harmful pollutants into less toxic substances, as seen in catalytic converters used in automobile exhaust systems.
