Evaluating the Role of Descriptor- and Spectator-Type Reaction Intermediates During the Early Phases of Zeolite Catalysis

The philosophy of Ikigai-a reason for being-could be extended to rationalize the role of organic reaction intermediates in zeolite catalysis. Each reaction intermediate's ikigai is specific under the confined microenvironment of the zeolite: either controlling the product selectivity (i.e., descriptor-type reaction intermediates) or promoting the catalyst deactivation (i.e., spectator-type reaction intermediates). Based on the process conditions and zeolite topologies, the ikigai of reaction intermediates could be altered, where the descriptor character could turn into a spectator depending on the working environment. Although the spectroscopy-/mechanism-driven development of catalytic technologies has been accelerated in the past decade and can now identify elusive zeolite-trapped reaction intermediates, it still does not always necessarily imply their positive impact during catalysis. Therefore, future research activities should be dedicated to recognizing the true ikigai of identified reaction intermediates: i.e., differentiating their spectator role from the catalytically relevant descriptor. Considering its potential industrial application, we will present our account and philosophy on the current status and future impact of mechanism-driven development of zeolite-mediated catalytic technologies in this Perspective.

Automated summary

The philosophy of Ikigai, which emphasizes the reason for being, can be applied to understand the role of organic reaction intermediates in zeolite catalysis. These intermediates can either control the product selectivity or promote catalyst deactivation depending on the specific microenvironment in zeolite. The understanding of reaction intermediates and their true impact during catalysis is crucial for the development of zeolite-mediated catalytic technologies.