An Electronegativity Approach to Catalytic Performance

Abstract

This article posits that there is a correlation between the electronegativity of a catalyst and the position of the same on Sabatier’s volcano curve. On the premise that the electronegativity of a material dictates its reaction behaviour, on both side of the scale the least and most electronegative elements would be very reactive. However, the more stable elements, especially transition metals would behave both as electropositive and electronegative elements, hence foster catalytic activities. Furthermore, assuming that the electronegativity of compounds is the summation of the electronegativity of individual elements, then we could successfully analyse the catalytic activity of compounds and their performance on the Sabatier’s scale. Based on this hypothesis, it is therefore possible for a wide range of catalysts to be produced from a synergy of transition metals thus forming ceramics, which would no doubt be cheaper and hence possibly solve the Platinum and noble metals catalyst challenges.