Toward computational screening in heterogeneous catalysis: Pareto-optimal methanation catalysts

Finding the solids that are the best catalysts for a given reaction is a daunting task due to the large number of combinations and structures of multicomponent surfaces. In addition, it is not only the reaction rate that needs to be optimized; the selectivity, durability, and cost must also be taken into account. Here we propose a computational screening approach and apply it to design a new metal alloy catalyst for the methanation reaction (CO + 3H2 → CH4 + H2O).