Progress in catalysis in China during 1982-2012: Theory and technological innovations

Abstract The development of catalytic science and technology in China dates from the early 20th century. In the beginning, the efforts of our predecessors gave an initial period of steady development. Then in the 1960s, there were serious obstacles by human factors during which the development of catalysis was stagnant and we lost more than ten years of development opportunity. In the 1980s, catalysis in China entered a period of rapid expansion. During this period, three main research sectors, namely, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), universities, and industries, were rapidly established and development recovered. Researchers carried out research using reaction kinetics as the main method and means. In basic research, the discovery of novel catalytic materials, characterization methods, and novel catalytic reactions were the main research directions. The introduction of surface science and nanoscience has greatly promoted and deepened the basic exploration of catalysis. Catalysis is now changing from an art to a science. In different historical periods, researches in applied catalysis were determined by national needs and these have made notable contributions to many fields, such as the optimal utilization of coal, petroleum and natural gas, advanced materials, and protection of environment as well as human health. Currently, China has begun contributing to important progress in catalysis and is moving towards becoming a regular contributor.