What Are Some Common Applications of Detoxification Catalysts?
Detoxification catalysts are used in various industries and applications:
1. Environmental Remediation: Removal of pollutants from air, water, and soil. For example, catalytic converters in vehicles convert harmful gases like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides into less harmful substances. 2. Industrial Processes: Detoxification of hazardous waste streams in chemical manufacturing. Catalysts like palladium and platinum are often used to remove toxic byproducts. 3. Medical Applications: Enzymatic detoxification in the human body to break down toxins. For example, the enzyme catalase catalyzes the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, a potentially harmful byproduct of cellular metabolism.