What are the Key Challenges in Catalyst Discovery?
Despite advancements, catalyst discovery faces several challenges:
1. Complexity of Reactions: Many catalytic processes involve complex reaction mechanisms that are not fully understood, making it difficult to design effective catalysts.
2. Material Stability: Catalysts must be stable under the operating conditions of the reaction. For example, they must withstand high temperatures, pressures, and harsh chemical environments.
3. Selectivity: Catalysts must be selective, meaning they should favor the production of the desired product over unwanted byproducts. Achieving high selectivity can be challenging, especially for complex reactions.