Why are Non-Stoichiometric Compounds Important in Catalysis?
Non-stoichiometric compounds are crucial in catalysis due to their structural defects, variable oxidation states, and unique electronic properties. These characteristics contribute to enhanced catalytic activity, selectivity, and stability. For instance, transition metal oxides like titanium dioxide (TiO2-x) and cerium oxide (CeO2-x) are well-known non-stoichiometric compounds that play a vital role in redox reactions.