This paper "Homogeneous Gold Catalysis: Mechanism and Relativistic Effects of the Addition of Water to Propyne "http://128.84.158.119/PS_cache/arxiv/pdf/0902/0902.0426v2.pdf published February 24, 2009 provides a link A between catalytic activity and relativistic effects. Something similar maybe be occurring in column 10 metals and even more widespread when dimensions approach Casimir geometries in any conductive materials. I would not be surprised if all catalytic force is eventually attributed to the quantum effect of London forces. Fran
Abstract: Homogeneous catalysis employing gold compounds is a rapidly developing field. Au(III) catalysts in particular are interesting, since they exhibit catalytic properties unseen in other metals. In this study we report for the first time the complete mechanism of the nucleophilic addition of water to triple bonds that have not specifically been activated. The effect that the coordination of solvent molecules has on the course of the catalytic cycle is demonstrated, and the importance of hydrogen bonds to guide the substrate through the mechanism is highlighted. The influence of relativistic effects, which are particularly important for very heavy metals such as gold, is investigated, and it is concluded that the catalytic activity of gold could be seen as a relativistic effect.
