New frontiers for heterogeneous catalysis

The nanocatalytic applications have revolutionized the field of catalysis (primarily the heterogeneous one) because of the unique size- and shape-dependent properties and higher surface area of the nanomaterials along with the possibility of controlling their surface properties using simple surface modifications. Consequently, the appropriate surface modifications can allow either enhancement of catalytic activity and selectivity, incorporation of catalytically active centers on nanosupport, and/or improvement of their stability and compatibility during synthesis as well as under reaction condition. In fact this has become increasing important in the context of sustainable development and thus contemporary research works are being focused on the area of surface modification for the development of better nanocatalysts. The present book timely highlights the historical as well as recent developments on the surface modification strategies of various nanocatalysts. The present chapter focuses on the several introductory topics related to nanocatalysis and surface modification and provides the necessary background information to the readers to have a smooth transition to the remaining, more detailed, and specialized chapters related to surface-modified nanocatalysts.