Cost fluctuations in catalysis can be attributed to numerous factors. One of the primary causes is the availability and price of _raw materials_ used in catalyst production. For example, precious metals like _platinum_, _palladium_, and _rhodium_ are essential for many catalytic processes but are subject to significant price volatility due to market demand and geopolitical factors. Additionally, _research and development_ (R&D) costs can also contribute to cost fluctuations, particularly when new, more efficient catalysts are being developed.
