Why are Patent Thickets Particularly Relevant in Catalysis?
Catalysis is a highly interdisciplinary field, involving chemistry, material science, and engineering. The complexity and broad scope of research mean that numerous patents can be filed on various components of a single catalytic process. For instance, a single catalytic system might involve patents on the catalyst material, the reaction conditions, and even the apparatus used. This makes it a fertile ground for the formation of patent thickets.
