Colloid chemistry of nanocatalysts: A molecular view

► Colloidal chemistry enables to control the size and shape of nanoparticles. ► Several molecular factors affect turnover frequency and reaction selectivity. ► Multipath reactions show selectivity as a function of size and shape of nanoparticles. ► In situ characterization techniques for catalysts: SFGVS, HPSTM, APXPS, and XAFS.