Why are Heterogeneous Catalysts Important for Sustainability?
Heterogeneous catalysts, which exist in a different phase than the reactants, are crucial for sustainable processes. These catalysts can be easily separated from the reaction mixture, reducing waste and enabling recycling. Innovations in this area include the development of supported catalysts, where active catalytic species are dispersed on a solid support, enhancing their stability and activity. Additionally, biocatalysts that mimic natural enzymes are being explored for their ability to perform complex reactions under mild conditions, further contributing to sustainability.
