Several factors can contribute to the deactivation of silver catalysts:
1. Poisoning: The presence of impurities or contaminants such as sulfur, chlorine, and phosphorus can bind to active sites on the silver catalyst, rendering them inactive. 2. Sintering: High temperatures can cause the agglomeration of silver particles, leading to a loss of surface area and active sites. 3. Coking: The deposition of carbonaceous materials on the catalyst surface can block active sites and hinder reactant access. 4. Oxidation: Silver can form silver oxide under specific environmental conditions, which is less active or inactive for certain reactions.
