Pickering emulsions in catalytic processes

Abstract

Pickering emulsions, which are emulsions stabilized by solid particles adsorbed at the interface between two immiscible liquids, provide a highly versatile platform for catalytic processes and offer distinct advantages over conventional systems. These emulsions combine the benefits of traditional biphasic catalysis with enhanced contact between reactive species due to their large interfacial area, which contribute to their high catalytic efficiency. Furthermore, Pickering emulsions offer significant advantages in catalytic processes, including improved extraction efficiency, a wider range of operational variables, the possibility of continuous operation, and the ease of recovery of the emulsifier and/or catalyst. Moreover, through strategic selection and design of solid particles, researchers can tailor interfacial properties to optimize catalytic performance, selectivity and stability. This comprehensive review discusses recent breakthroughs in Pickering emulsion research and their applications in catalysis, examining how Pickering emulsions have transformed catalytic methodologies. By discussing the latest developments, this review demonstrates the potential of Pickering emulsions as a catalyst platform and highlights their role in advancing sustainable and efficient catalytic processes.