What is the Significance of Ionic Strength in Catalysis?
Ionic strength refers to the concentration of ions in the reaction medium. It can influence the activity of catalysts, particularly in electrocatalytic and enzymatic reactions. High ionic strength can stabilize charged intermediates and transition states, thereby enhancing reaction rates. Conversely, it can also lead to catalyst poisoning or precipitation. Therefore, controlling ionic strength is a crucial aspect of medium engineering to ensure optimal catalytic performance.
