Catalyst deactivation is a significant challenge in catalysis, and morphology can influence this process:
Sintering: High temperatures can cause small particles to agglomerate, reducing surface area and active sites. Morphologies that enhance thermal stability can mitigate sintering. Coking: Formation of carbon deposits can block active sites. Catalysts with hierarchical pores can help alleviate coking by facilitating the removal of carbon species. Oxidation/Reduction: Changes in oxidation states can deactivate catalysts. Morphologies that stabilize specific oxidation states can enhance catalyst durability.