What Types of Catalysts Are Used in Chemical Recycling?
Several types of catalysts are employed in chemical recycling, including:
1. Homogeneous Catalysts: These catalysts are in the same phase as the reactants, typically in solution. They offer high selectivity and can be fine-tuned for specific reactions.
2. Heterogeneous Catalysts: These are in a different phase than the reactants, usually solid catalysts with reactants in a liquid or gaseous phase. They are easier to separate from the reaction mixture and can often be reused.
3. Enzymatic Catalysts: Enzymes are highly selective biological catalysts that can operate under mild conditions. They are particularly useful for breaking down complex polymers into simpler molecules.
