What Types of Catalysts are Commonly Used in Green Chemistry?
Several types of catalysts are used in green chemistry, each with its own advantages and applications: - Homogeneous Catalysts: These are catalysts that are in the same phase (usually liquid) as the reactants. They offer high selectivity and are easy to study but can be challenging to separate from the reaction mixture. - Heterogeneous Catalysts: These catalysts are in a different phase (usually solid) than the reactants. They are easier to separate and can be reused, but they may offer lower selectivity. - Biocatalysts: Enzymes and other biological molecules can act as highly selective catalysts for specific reactions. They operate under mild conditions and are biodegradable. - Organocatalysts: Small organic molecules that can catalyze reactions without the need for metals. They are often non-toxic and can be designed to be highly selective.
