US scientists unveil how nickel catalyst can replace expensive palladium in industrial chemistry
SMRTR summary
Scientists have discovered how light activates nickel catalysts, potentially allowing nickel to replace expensive palladium in industrial chemical processes. Nickel offers advantages like light-driven reactivity and lower cost - about 50 cents per ounce compared to $1,000 for palladium. The research revealed that light breaks nickel-chloride bonds, creating reactive nickel and chlorine radicals that interact with the solvent. This forms a stable nickel intermediate, preventing deactivation. The findings could expand nickel's use in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and electronics manufacturing.
SMRTR provides this summary for quick context. The original article belongs to Interesting Engineering.
Read the original article