>> Anyone know if the metal/organic catalyst is toxic? I don't know about ruthenium in particular, but almost all heavy metals are toxic to humans. That's beca

>> Anyone know if the metal/organic catalyst is toxic? I don't know about ruthenium in particular, but almost all heavy metals are toxic to humans. That's because they can often substitute for similar, desirable metals (almost always lighter) in various biomolecules, but not function properly when substituted. In other words, the heavy metals are similar enough to bind to some active site, but not similar enough to perform the correct function. Ruthenuium's properties are very similar to iron's, which sounds like trouble.