Catalyst deactivation can be caused by multiple factors:
1. Fouling: The deposition of unwanted materials on the catalyst surface. 2. Poisoning: The binding of impurities or inhibitors to the active sites of the catalyst. 3. Sintering: The agglomeration of catalyst particles at high temperatures, reducing the surface area available for the reaction. 4. Leaching: The loss of active components from the catalyst into the reaction medium.