How do Mass Transfer Limitations Affect Catalysis?
Mass transfer limitations occur when the transport of reactants or products to and from the active catalytic sites is slower than the intrinsic reaction rate. This can lead to reduced catalytic efficiency as the reactants may not reach the active sites in sufficient quantities or products may not be removed quickly enough. Factors such as pore size and distribution, surface area, and the diffusion coefficients of the reactants and products play a significant role in mass transfer. Addressing these limitations often involves optimizing the catalyst's physical structure and operating conditions.
