Catalysts speed up a chemical reaction by lowering the amount of energy you need to get one going. Catalysis is the backbone of many industrial processes, which use chemical reactions to turn raw materials into useful products. Catalysts are integral in making plastics and many other manufactured items. It is widely used in urea synthesis in fertilizer plants, industrial waste gas treatment, hydrogen production in refineries, and plastic synthesis.
What is catalyst?
A catalyst is a substance that speeds up a chemical reaction, or lowers the temperature or pressure needed to start one, without itself being consumed during the reaction. It can change the chemical reaction rate of other substances in a chemical reaction, but its mass and chemical properties have not changed before and after the reaction.
Types of catalyst
Catalyzed reactions form the basis of many industrial chemical processes. Catalyst manufacture is itself a rapidly growing industrial process.
| Catalytic processes and their catalysts | |
| Process | Catalyst |
| ammonia synthesis | Iron Catalyst |
| Methanol Synthetic | Copper-zinc catalyst |
| Fertilizer plant urea synthesis | CO2 dehydrogenation |
| Industrial Waste Gas Treatment | Desulfurization and denitrification |
| Refinery Hydrogen Production | PSA hydrogen production |
| Ethylene synthesis | Mercury Catalyst |
How does catalyst work
A catalyst is a substance that can speed up a reaction, without being consumed in the process. They work by lowering the activation energy required for a reaction, by forming temporary, weak bonds with the reactant molecules. By the end of the reaction, however, these bonds are lost and the catalyst returns to its original state, which is why no net change occurs to the catalyst.
4 examples of catalyst
Ammonia Synthesis
Ammonia synthesis is a process that involves the reaction of nitrogen gas (N2) and hydrogen gas (H2) to produce ammonia (NH3). This reaction is typically catalyzed by an iron-based catalyst, often in the form of iron oxide or a combination of iron and other metals. The ammonia produced is a crucial feedstock for the production of fertilizers and other chemicals.
Methanol Synthesis
Methanol synthesis is the production of methanol from synthesis gas (a mixture of carbon monoxide and hydrogen) through a catalytic reaction. The catalyst used in this process is typically a copper-based catalyst supported on alumina. Methanol is a versatile chemical that is used in a variety of applications, including as a feedstock for the production of formaldehyde and other chemicals.
Desulfurization and Denitrification
Desulfurization and denitrification are two common methods used to purify industrial waste gases. Desulfurization is the process of removing sulfur dioxide (SO2) from exhaust gases, while denitrification is the process of removing nitrogen oxides (NOx) from exhaust gases.
Ammonia is a commonly used reducing agent for denitrification. It works by converting NOx into nitrogen and water through a chemical reaction. The reaction is typically carried out in a selective catalytic reduction (SCR) reactor, which contains a catalyst that helps to facilitate the reaction.
Ethylene Synthesis
Mercury catalysts have been used for many years in the production of ethylene, a vital industrial chemical that is widely used in the manufacture of plastics, solvents, and other chemicals. Mercury catalysts are known for their high activity and selectivity, making them an ideal choice for ethylene synthesis.
Conclusion of catalyst
In conclusion, catalysts are essential tools in modern chemical manufacturing, enabling efficient and sustainable production of a wide range of products. From improving reaction rates to enabling the production of controlled polymers, catalysts have revolutionized the way we approach chemical synthesis.
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If you are looking for a reliable partner for your catalyst needs, we encourage you to contact us. Our team is always happy to discuss your requirements and provide you with the best possible solution. Together, we can help you achieve your goals and contribute to a more sustainable future.
