Steric constraints on adsorption in heterogeneous catalytic reactions

The kinetics of heterogeneous catalytic reactions with participation of large molecules can be influenced by steric constraints on their adsorption. Using a generic model of alkane hydrogenolysis, the author presents Monte Carlo simulations explicitly illustrating that this effect may dramatically change the apparent reaction order in alkane. The predictions drawn are in good agreement with the results of numerous experimental studies performed on various metals.