What Role Do Nanocrystals Play in Heterogeneous Catalysis?
In heterogeneous catalysis, the catalyst is in a different phase from the reactants. Nanocrystals serve as the active phase, providing a large surface area for the reactants to interact. This interaction is crucial for processes such as hydrogenation, oxidation, and reforming reactions. The ability to tailor the surface properties of nanocrystals makes them highly efficient and selective catalysts.