Oxidation catalysts function by providing an alternative reaction pathway with a lower activation energy. This is achieved through the formation of intermediate species on the catalyst's surface, which facilitates the transfer of electrons. Commonly, oxidation catalysts are metals or metal oxides such as platinum, palladium, manganese oxide, and vanadium oxide. These materials have the ability to adsorb reactants and facilitate the breaking and forming of chemical bonds during the oxidation process.
