The Physical Basis for Heterogeneous Catalysis

The Physical Basis for Heterogeneous Catalysis is a scientific volume edited by Edmund Drauglis and Robert I. Jaffee, published in 1975.

This volume is a collection of scientific papers focused on the fundamental physical principles underlying heterogeneous catalysis, where reactions occur at the interface between different phases, typically solid catalysts and gaseous or liquid reactants.

The book explores how the structure and properties of catalyst surfaces influence chemical reactions. It begins with discussions of surface physics and chemistry, including adsorption processes, surface energy, and the interaction between reactant molecules and catalytic materials.

Key topics include:

Surface structure and composition: crystal structure, defects, and active sites on catalyst surfaces
Adsorption phenomena: physical and chemical adsorption mechanisms and their role in reaction initiation
Reaction kinetics: how surface processes control reaction rates and pathways
Catalyst characterization: experimental techniques used to study surfaces, such as spectroscopy and microscopy (as developed at the time)

The volume also examines how variations in catalyst materials—such as metals, oxides, and supported catalysts—affect performance. Contributors analyze the relationship between microscopic surface behavior and macroscopic catalytic activity, aiming to establish a more predictive understanding of catalyst design.

Applications discussed include processes relevant to the chemical and petroleum industries, where heterogeneous catalysis is essential for refining, synthesis, and energy-related reactions.