NANOCATALYSTS IN HETEROGENEOUS REACTIONS: STRUCTURE–ACTIVITY RELATIONSHIPS

Abstract

Nanocatalysts have emerged as vital tools in modern heterogeneous catalysis due to their large surface area-to-volume ratio, tunable physicochemical properties, and high catalytic efficiencies. This paper reviews the critical structure–activity relationships (SARs) in nanocatalysts and their influence on catalytic performance across various reactions, including hydrogenation, oxidation, CO₂ reduction, and cross-coupling. Emphasis is placed on morphological features such as particle size, shape, crystallographic facets, and defect structures. The role of supports, metal-support interactions, and bimetallic or doped systems are also addressed. Understanding SARs provides a rational framework for designing highly efficient and selective nanocatalysts for sustainable chemical transformations.