ABSTRACT

The design of heterogeneous catalysts is discussed with particular reference to the control of selectivity and the enhancement in rate of desired reactions. Approaches to the design of ultraselective catalysts are reviewed and three classes of enantioselective catalyst are described: (1) the use a chiral support for an achiral metal catalyst, (2) the immobilisation of a homogeneous catalyst and (3) modification of an achiral heterogeneous catalyst using a chiral cofactor. Recent developments in these design approaches are discussed with particular reference to two types of catalyst. The first deals with the latest studies concerning the enantioselective  hydrogenation of α- ketoesters using cinchona modified, supported Pt catalysts. The second concerns the latest development in the use of zeolites and related materials as the basis for designer catalysts.