How does catalyst deactivation affect industrial processes?
Catalyst deactivation is a significant problem as it leads to reduced efficiency and increased costs. Deactivation occurs due to factors like sintering, coking, and poisoning. Sintering involves the aggregation of metal particles, reducing the active surface area. Coking refers to the deposition of carbonaceous materials on the catalyst, blocking active sites. Poisoning happens when impurities bind strongly to the catalyst, deactivating it. Addressing these issues requires the development of more robust catalysts and effective regeneration techniques.
