Catalyst 'Dance' Unveiled: New Insights Could Revolutionize Chemical Production

A groundbreaking analysis from MIT researchers reveals that the production of vinyl acetate, a key component in many polymers, relies on a catalytic process involving two distinct catalyst forms. Published in *Science*, the study challenges the conventional view of catalysis as solely surface-based or molecule-based.The team, led by Professor Yogesh Surendranath, discovered a 'cyclic dance' where solid metal catalysts transform into molecules and back. This interplay between heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysis proves crucial for an efficient and selective process.The reaction requires activation of both oxygen molecules and a combination of acetic acid and ethylene. The molecular catalyst form excels with ethylene and acetic acid, while the surface form activates oxygen. This interconversion involves corrosion, akin to rusting, with soluble molecular species playing a key role.Electrochemical techniques, traditionally used in corrosion research, revealed that the corrosion rate of the palladium catalyst limits the overall reaction. This understanding could lead to the design of improved catalysts that leverage the synergy between solid materials and soluble molecules.'With this new understanding that both types of catalysis could play a role, what other catalytic processes are out there that actually involve both? Maybe those have a lot of room for improvement that could benefit from this understanding,' says Deiaa Harraz, MIT graduate student.The findings, supported by the National Science Foundation and the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, offer a new perspective on catalyst design, potentially impacting various chemical production processes beyond vinyl acetate synthesis.