The efficiency of a heterogeneous catalyst is determined by several factors, including surface area, active sites, and the nature of the support material.
Surface Area A high surface area is essential as it provides more active sites for the reaction to occur. Catalysts like zeolites and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are designed to maximize surface area.
Active Sites The number and accessibility of active sites are critical. These sites are the specific locations on the catalyst where the reaction takes place. Modifying the electronic and geometric structure of these sites can significantly enhance catalytic activity.
Support Material The material that supports the active sites, often referred to as the catalyst support, influences the dispersion of active particles and their stability. Materials like alumina and silica are commonly used for this purpose.
