Why is an Inert Atmosphere Important in Catalysis?
In catalytic processes, maintaining an inert atmosphere is important for several reasons:
Preventing Catalyst Deactivation: Many catalysts, especially metal catalysts, are highly sensitive to oxygen and moisture. Exposure to these substances can lead to the formation of oxides or hydroxides, which deactivate the catalyst. Enhancing Selectivity: An inert atmosphere can help in achieving higher selectivity by preventing side reactions that could occur in the presence of reactive gases. Avoiding Explosive Reactions: Some catalytic reactions involve flammable or explosive intermediates. An inert atmosphere can mitigate the risk of ignition.
