Research in catalysis is diverse, with several active areas of investigation:
- Heterogeneous Catalysis: Study of catalysts in a different phase than the reactants, typically solids catalyzing gas or liquid reactions. - Homogeneous Catalysis: Catalysts and reactants are in the same phase, often involving transition metal complexes in solution. - Biocatalysis: Use of natural catalysts, such as enzymes, for chemical transformations. - Electrocatalysis: Catalysis of electrochemical reactions, crucial for energy conversion technologies like fuel cells and batteries. - Photocatalysis: Use of light to activate catalytic reactions, with applications in solar energy conversion and environmental cleanup.