ABSTRACT
A catalyst chemically interacts with reactants to bring about their conversion to desired products while itself remaining unchanged. It is uniquely ironic that the precious (or noble) metals produce some of the most active and selective catalysts yet are also frequently used in applications where inertness or nonreactivity is essential. For example, many materials, such as high-temperature alloys, dental products, electronic components, and surgical implants, use precious metals because of their chemical inertness in severe temperature and/or corrosive environments. Unquestionably, precious metals are unique and indispensable materials for many industrial applications.
