Heterogeneous Catalysis: Fundamentals

This chapter deals with setting up rate equations for simple heterogeneously catalyzed gas-phase reactions, specifically dealing with bimolecular gas-phase reactions, which occur widely in heterogeneous catalysis. It first discusses the kinetics and mechanisms of heterogeneously catalyzed reactions. Before discussing some examples of function of promoters, it provides an overview of promoters for industrial catalysts. An overview of catalyst deactivation in large-scale industrial processes is then provided, followed by a discussion of the process of catalyst regeneration and recycling. The chapter describes the most important mechanisms of catalyst deactivation and discusses possible methods of catalyst regeneration. Although the specific surface area is one of the most important parameters in heterogeneous catalysis, it must be taken into account that especially in the case of supported catalysts, there is no direct relationship between catalyst activity and the physical surface of the catalyst.