This unique book critically evaluates the extensive literature in the field of Metal-Catalysed Reactions of Hydrocarbons, with emphasis on reaction mechanisms involving hydrogenation, hydrogenolysis, skeletal and positional isomerisation, and exchange reactions. The concentration is on identifying the physico-chemical characteristics of active centres in chemical reactions, showing how these may be modified to improve the desired behavior of the catalyst, and controlling those aspects of the catalyst's structure that limit its overall performance. The close focus on hydrocarbons will appeal to researchers, students and working technicians in the industry.

From the reviews:

"It is a real pleasure to see a current, readable book that is devoted to the metal-catalyzed reactions of hydrocarbons . the comprehensive treatment given in this text will undoubtedly give its readers a deeper appreciation of the mechanisms that lie at the heart of many important industrial processes. The material is presented in a very clear and well-paced style . This book will be a significant aid for those wishing to gain a working knowledge of catalysis on metal surfaces." (Colin D. Abernethy, Journal of the American Chemical Society, Vol. 128 (4), 2006)

Inhalt
Metals and Alloys.- Small Metal Particles and Supported Metal Catalysts.- Chemisorption and Reactions of Hydrogen.- The Chemisorption of Hydrocarbons.- to the Catalysis of Hydrocarbon Reactions.- Exchange of Alkanes with Deuterium.- Hydrogenation of Alkenes and Related Processes.- Hydrogenation of Alkadienes and Poly-Enes.- Hydrogenation of Alkynes.- Hydrogenation of the Aromatic Ring.- Hydrogenation of Small Alicyclic Rings.- Dehydrogenation of Alkanes.- Reactions of the Lower Alkanes with Hydrogen.- Reactions of Higher Alkanes with Hydrogen.