Impurities can significantly impact the performance and lifespan of catalysts in various ways:
Poisons: Certain impurities, known as catalyst poisons, can strongly adsorb onto the active sites of a catalyst, thereby deactivating it. Common poisons include sulfur, phosphorus, and heavy metals like lead. Fouling: Impurities can cause fouling by depositing on the catalyst surface, which blocks active sites and hinders the catalytic reactions. Sintering: Metal impurities can induce sintering of catalysts, leading to the agglomeration of active particles and loss of surface area. Structural Changes: Some impurities can alter the crystal structure of catalysts, affecting their stability and reactivity.
