Development of Industrial Catalysts. This paper considers the industrial development of catalysts as an important component of chemical processes. Starting from the desired properties, a detailed description is presented of the heterogeneous catalysts which account for some 80% of all the catalyst systems in industrial use. In addition to an treatment of catalyst structure, particular emphasis is placed on interdisciplinary aspects of catalyst development.The factors influencing catalyst performance and the range of methods used for their characterisation are also discussed. The approach adopted in catalyst development is then presented and four topical examples are given to illustrate the influence of structural parameters on catalyst performance. The article concludes with a description of the industrial production of catalysts and a look at the future of catalyst development.