Catalysts combinatorial optimization

Strasser P (2008) Combinatorial optimization of ternary Pt alloy catalysts for the electrooxidation of methanol. J Combin Chem 10 216-224... 

Figure IZll Combinatorial approach to catalyst structure optimization.

Combinatorial and High-Throughput Discovery and Optimization of Catalysts and Materials... 

The last few papers (38, 39, and 41) presented are examples where the ligands were not synthesized in a parallel or combinatorial fashion. However, by thinking about the optimization of reaction conditions in a parallel manner and by using ligands that are commercially available or easily synthesized, individual catalysts were found, which in some cases proceed with good selectivity. 

Catalysts are so important in chemical industry that combinatorial-type approaches will certainly be utilized as tools in the identification and optimization of both heterogeneous and homogeneous catalysts. These are, in many cases, high value-added, commercially important materials. In any research activity it makes sense to remove any choke points that impede progress. However, many engineering considerations are important in producing commercial catalytic processes thus, combinatorial-type approaches are unlikely to be a panacea. Still, a variety of unanticipated discoveries may result from various efforts that are under way. 

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