Why is Structural Elucidation Important in Catalysis?
Structural elucidation is fundamental in catalysis because the performance of a catalyst is directly related to its structure. Knowing the structural details allows researchers to:
- Identify active sites: Pinpoint the exact locations on the catalyst where reactions occur. - Understand reaction mechanisms: Uncover the step-by-step process by which a catalyst facilitates a reaction. - Optimize catalyst design: Modify the structure to enhance activity, selectivity, or stability. - Predict performance: Anticipate how a catalyst will behave under different conditions.