Various substances can act as catalyst poisons, and their impact depends on the type of catalyst and the reaction conditions. Common poisons include:
Sulfur compounds, which are notorious for poisoning metal catalysts used in hydrogenation reactions. Chlorine compounds, which can deactivate catalysts used in oxidation reactions. Carbon monoxide (CO), which can poison catalysts in fuel cells and synthesis gas reactions. Phosphates, which can deactivate catalysts in hydroprocessing applications.
