Several factors contribute to catalyst deactivation:
Poisoning: This occurs when impurities in the feedstock or reaction environment bind irreversibly to the active sites of the catalyst, rendering them inactive. Coking: The formation of carbonaceous deposits on the catalyst surface can block active sites and pores, leading to deactivation. Sintering: High temperatures can cause the active metal particles on the catalyst surface to agglomerate, reducing the surface area available for reactions. Fouling: Accumulation of physical debris or by-products on the catalyst surface can obstruct active sites. Leaching: The loss of active metal components from the catalyst due to solubilization in the reaction medium.
