What Are the Advantages of Heterogeneous Catalysis?
Heterogeneous catalysis involves catalysts that exist in a different phase (usually solid) than the reactants (typically gases or liquids). These catalysts are advantageous because they can be easily separated from the reaction mixture, which simplifies the process and minimizes waste. They can also be designed to be highly selective, reducing the formation of unwanted by-products. Examples include supported metal catalysts and oxides, which are used extensively in industrial processes such as hydrogenation, oxidation, and catalytic cracking.