An Overview of the Different Types of Catalysts in Organic Synthesis

Since the mid-twentieth century, by economic and environmental factors, many researchers and some industries are investing in the development of syntheses and technologies that are environmentally friendly, producing less toxic waste and saving energy. Furthermore, the use of renewable raw materials, biomass and the development of asymmetric methods that provide products with high yields and selectivities becomes a major challenge for researchers in various fields that employ the catalytic process. This paper describes the importance of catalysis in organic synthesis of complex molecules, especially for the pharmaceutical and fine chemicals industries. Indeed, the industrial revolution caused by catalysis in different sectors such as petrochemicals, plastics, paper, among others, also became the subject of interest of this review.