Several factors can lead to improper scaling in catalysis: 1. Surface Heterogeneity: Variations in the surface structure of the catalyst can cause deviations from ideal scaling relations. 2. Electronic Effects: Differences in electronic properties of the catalyst's active sites can lead to improper scaling. 3. Coverage Effects: High coverage of adsorbates can alter the adsorption energies, causing deviations from the expected scaling. 4. Intermediates Interaction: Interactions between adsorbed intermediates can lead to improper scaling by affecting adsorption energies.
