Thermal instability can be caused by a variety of factors:
Sintering: High temperatures can cause the catalyst particles to agglomerate, reducing the surface area available for reactions. Phase Transformation: Some catalysts undergo phase changes at elevated temperatures, leading to a loss of active sites. Chemical Reactions: High temperatures can promote unwanted side reactions that degrade the catalyst material. Volatilization: Certain catalyst components may vaporize at high temperatures, leading to material loss.