Heterogeneous Catalyst — Definition, Formula, Properties & Uses | AllChemicals | AllChemicals

Also Known As	Surface catalyst, solid catalyst (for gas/liquid reactions), heterogeneous catalyst

What is Heterogeneous Catalyst?

A catalyst that exists in a different phase from the reactants. Typically a solid catalyst with gaseous or liquid reactants. The reaction occurs on the catalyst surface. Examples include iron in the Haber process, platinum in catalytic converters, and vanadium pentoxide in the Contact process.

Properties & Characteristics

A heterogeneous catalyst is a catalyst that is in a different phase from the reactants. Most commonly: a solid catalyst with gaseous or liquid reactants. The catalytic reaction occurs at the solid surface; key steps are adsorption of reactants, surface reaction, and desorption of products (Langmuir-Hinshelwood or Rideal-Eley mechanisms). Surface area and active site accessibility are critical — catalysts are often dispersed as nanoparticles on high-surface-area supports (Al₂O₃, SiO₂, zeolites).

Uses & Applications

Heterogeneous catalysts are central to industrial chemistry: Haber process (Fe catalyst for N₂ + 3H₂ → 2NH₃), Contact process (V₂O₅ for SO₂ → SO₃), catalytic cracking (zeolite catalysts for oil refining), automotive catalytic converters (Pt/Pd/Rh for CO/HC/NOₓ removal), and hydrogenation (Ni, Pd, Pt for vegetable oil hardening).

Safety Information

Finely divided metal catalysts (Raney nickel, palladium on carbon) are pyrophoric when dry — keep wet with solvent or water. Used heterogeneous catalysts may adsorb toxic reactants or products. Handling procedures must ensure deactivated catalyst is properly neutralised before disposal.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Heterogeneous Catalyst

Index All "H" terms

Synonyms Surface catalyst, solid catalyst (for gas/liquid reactions), heterogeneous catalyst

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Heterogeneous Catalyst?

A catalyst that exists in a different phase from the reactants. Typically a solid catalyst with gaseous or liquid reactants. The reaction occurs on the catalyst surface. Examples include iron in the Haber process, platinum in catalytic converters, and vanadium pentoxide in the Contact process.

What is Heterogeneous Catalyst used for?

Is Heterogeneous Catalyst hazardous?

More "H" Terms

Haber Process N₂ + 3H₂ ⇌ 2NH₃ | ΔH = −92 kJ/mol Hafnium Hf Half Cell Half Life Half-Cell E = E° − (RT/nF)lnQ Half-Life A(t) = A₀e^(−λt); t½ = ln2/λ Half-Reaction Halide X⁻ (e.g., F⁻, Cl⁻, Br⁻, I⁻) Halogen F₂, Cl₂, Br₂, I₂, At; Group 17; ns²np⁵ valence configuration Halogenation C-X + Cl₂/Br₂ (hv or AlCl₃) → C-X(halogen); EAS or radical pathway Halogens Hard Acid Hard acid: small, highly charged, low polarisability (e.g., H⁺, Mg²⁺, Al³⁺)

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