What are the Applications of Thin Films in Catalysis?
Thin films are employed in a variety of catalytic applications, including:
1. Heterogeneous Catalysis: Thin films can act as catalysts in reactions where the phase of the catalyst differs from the phase of the reactants. For example, metal oxide thin films are often used in oxidation reactions. 2. Photocatalysis: Thin films of materials like titanium dioxide (TiO₂) are used in photocatalytic processes for environmental remediation and hydrogen production. 3. Electrocatalysis: Thin films are crucial in fuel cells and electrolyzers where they catalyze reactions such as the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER).
