What is Heterogeneous vs. Homogeneous Metal Catalysis?
In heterogeneous catalysis, the metal catalyst is in a different phase than the reactants, typically as a solid catalyst in contact with liquid or gas phase reactants. This type of catalysis is widely used in industrial processes, such as the Haber-Bosch process for ammonia synthesis. In contrast, homogeneous catalysis involves metal catalysts that are in the same phase as the reactants, usually in solution. Homogeneous catalysis offers advantages in terms of selectivity and ease of mechanistic study but often requires more complex separation processes.
