Heterogeneous Catalysts: These are catalysts in a different phase than the reactants, often solid catalysts in contact with liquid or gas reactants. Innovations include nanoparticles and mesoporous materials that provide high surface areas and unique active sites. Homogeneous Catalysts: These catalysts are in the same phase as the reactants, typically in solution. Recent advancements involve the design of organometallic complexes that offer high selectivity and activity. Bio-catalysts: Enzymes and engineered proteins are gaining attention for their ability to catalyze reactions under mild conditions with high specificity. Advances in protein engineering and directed evolution have significantly enhanced the performance of these biological catalysts.
