Understanding Structure–Performance Relationships in Oxidic Catalysts: Controlling Shape and Tuning Performance

Morphabulous: Heterogeneous catalysts often consist of nanosized metal or metal oxide particles and the morphology of these crystals is crucial to their performance. By controlling the synthetic conditions, the shape of the crystals can be varied, which affects the exposed surfaces and ultimately influences the property and activity of the material. Structures with well-defined or controlled surfaces are desirable.