Nanocluster discovery will protect precious metals
— Read on phys.org/news/2021-08-nanocluster-discovery-precious-metals.html

Excerpt from the original article…( above linked)

…In their new research, published today in Nature Communications, they demonstrate that the behavior of nanoclusters of palladium do not conform to the orthodox characteristics that define catalysts as either homogeneous or heterogenous.Traditionally, catalysts are divided into homogeneous, when catalytic centers are intimately mixed with reactant molecules, and heterogenous, where reactions take place on surface of a catalyst. Usually, chemists must make compromises when choosing one type or another, as homogeneous catalysts are more selective and active, and heterogenous catalysts are more durable and reusable. However, the nanoclusters of palladium atoms appear to defy the traditional categories, as demonstrated by studying their catalytic behavior in the reaction of cyclopropanation of styrene.Catalysts enable nearly 80 percent of industrial chemical processes that deliver the most vital ingredients of our economy, from materials (such as polymers) and pharmaceuticals right through to agrochemicals including fertilizers and crop protection…