The catalysts used in alcohol dehydrogenation can be broadly categorized into homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts.
- Homogeneous Catalysts: These catalysts are in the same phase as the reactants. Common examples include transition metal complexes such as ruthenium, iridium, and rhodium complexes. - Heterogeneous Catalysts: These catalysts are in a different phase than the reactants, typically solids. Examples include supported metal catalysts like platinum on carbon or palladium on alumina.