Irreparable harm can be caused by several factors including:
Poisoning: This occurs when a catalyst interacts with impurities that strongly bind to its active sites, rendering them inactive. Thermal Degradation: High temperatures can cause changes in the physical structure of the catalyst, leading to a loss of activity. Sintering: Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause the catalyst particles to agglomerate, reducing their surface area and effectiveness. Fouling: Accumulation of unwanted materials on the catalyst surface can block active sites and hinder catalytic activity.