Several factors contribute to the high initial costs associated with catalysis:
Research and Development (R&D): The process of discovering and optimizing new catalysts often involves extensive R&D, which can be time-consuming and expensive. Material Costs: Many effective catalysts are made from rare or precious metals like platinum, palladium, or rhodium, which are costly. Specialized Equipment: Catalytic processes often require specialized reactors, control systems, and safety mechanisms, all of which add to the initial expenditure. Scaling Up: Transitioning from laboratory-scale to industrial-scale production involves overcoming numerous technical challenges, often requiring significant investment.
