Page 11 - Principles of Catalyst Development

xii PREFACE
Chapter 1 starts with a review of catalytic functions, a necessary prelude
to the journey, to remind us what the catalyst is expected to do. Then
follows a discussion of catalytic components. Impatient readers may enjoy
jumping ahead at this point, but it will be necessary to return for more
serious contemplation after the intervening chapters have been mastered.
Chapter 3 continues with the philosophy of catalyst development and
seeks to place every step in perspective. The reader should seek his or her
place in the scheme of things or perhaps identify tasks yet to be tried. This
chapter is, frankly speaking, preaching, but with the purposes of imparting
an appreciation for the role each of us plays.
Chapter 4, on catalytic materials, is a tough one. Attempting to cover
the fundamentals of catalysis as they exist today in one chapter is perhaps
presumptuous. But it must be done. I have tried to introduce the right
balance of historical fact and modern thinking, knowing all too well that
both will change. This is the chapter where many readers will feel cheated,
but, I hope, also inspired to seek further knowledge. Chapter 5 continues
with a suggestion of how to design a novel catalyst composition.
In Chapter 6 the subject gets serious-catalyst preparation. Enough
detail is given to be instructive but at the same time to deliver the right
degree of respect for the "art" and expectation in the "science." Many
readers will tind this discussion their tirst insight into the magic of catalysis.
Catalyst characterization as discussed in Chapter 7 is straightforward
and contains no inspiration, just the necessary facts. Even those not per-
sonally concerned with conducting the tests should follow this material with
interest, for all of us are concerned with measuring our achievements.
Chapter 8 on catalyst deactivation is lengthy, but this is where the
catalyst designer displays his or her ultimate virtuosity. Including it was
too good an opportunity to miss.
Appendixes provide a source of reference material that will prove
useful to the newcomer progressing into the arena to flex his or her
knowledge.
Ahove all, this hook is a teaching vehicle and as such should be enjoyed.
Do not devour it all at once, but take your time. Your comments will be
seriously and graciously received.
I am grateful to colleagues over the years who have contributed to the
material used and to all my teachers and students, from whom I have
learned much. Special appreciation goes to the University of Houston for
providing a sabbatical opportunity to write the book and to the University
of New South Wales for the pleasant environment in which to do it.

James T. Richardson
HoustO/l