What Types of Catalysts are Used in Manufacturing?
There are several types of catalysts used in manufacturing plants: - Homogeneous Catalysts: These are in the same phase as the reactants, usually liquids. They are used in processes like hydroformylation and polymerization. - Heterogeneous Catalysts: These exist in a different phase than the reactants, typically solids interacting with liquid or gaseous reactants. They are used in processes like the Haber-Bosch process for ammonia synthesis and catalytic cracking in petroleum refining. - Enzymatic Catalysts: These are biological catalysts used in processes like fermentation and biocatalysis.