Abstract
A comprehensive analysis of published data on catalytic reactions under the influence of ionising radiations is given. The combination of heterogeneous catalysis and ionising radiation effects is shown to be a new area in which the study of electronic factors leads to an understanding of the role of free and of localised charge carriers in the elementary acts of catalytic reactions. Some problems in the electronic theory of catalysis involving the effect of radiation are formulated, and data on the role of the catalytically active centres produced by prior irradiation of the catalyst are reported. Catalytic reactions taking place under the influence of ionising radiation are discussed, and possible mechanisms (usually involving electronic and free-radical steps) are considered. 138 references.