Catalysts driving efficiency and innovation in thermal reactions: A comprehensive review

Abstract

Catalysts play a crucial role in optimizing thermal reactions across various industries, fostering efficiency and innovation. This review offers a concise yet comprehensive examination of the diverse landscape of catalysts in thermal reactions. Beginning with an introduction to the research context, the review defines catalysts and underscores their importance in facilitating chemical transformations at elevated temperatures. It explores two primary categories of catalysts, homogeneous and heterogeneous, elucidating their mechanisms and applications. Delving into catalytic mechanisms reveals the intricate processes of adsorption, desorption, and intermediate formation guiding reactions on catalyst surfaces. The review highlights catalyst applications in petrochemicals, chemical synthesis, energy generation, and environmental remediation, emphasizing their significant impact. Additionally, it discusses catalyst design, challenges, and future directions, alongside advanced characterization techniques and case studies illustrating real-world implications. The conclusion underscores the transformative potential of catalysts in thermal reactions, advocating for further exploration in this dynamic field. Through this synthesis of insights, catalysts emerge as drivers of progress, propelling thermal reactions towards unprecedented levels of efficiency and ingenuity.