Reduced selectivity in catalytic processes can be attributed to several factors:
1. Catalyst Deactivation: Over time, catalysts can lose their active sites due to poisoning, sintering, or fouling. This deterioration can lead to a decline in performance and an increase in the formation of unwanted products. 2. Reaction Conditions: Parameters such as temperature, pressure, and concentration of reactants can affect the selectivity of a catalyst. Deviations from optimal conditions can result in side reactions. 3. Impurities: The presence of impurities in the reactants can interfere with the catalytic process, leading to reduced selectivity. 4. Catalyst Structure: The physical and chemical properties of the catalyst, such as pore size, surface area, and active site distribution, play a significant role in determining selectivity. Any changes or defects in these properties can lead to less selective outcomes.
