Heterogeneous Catalysis

The onset of microfabrication has enabled developers to manufacture metallic catalysts with extremely fine microstructural properties (finely divided sheets, gauzes, nanostructured films, etc.) which translates to a greater number of reactive sites, thus greater efficiency.

Heterogeneous Catalysis in Practice

Maleic Anhydride

Maleic anhydride (MA) is a widely produced chemical that derives from the partial oxidation of n-butane by air over vanadium pyrophosphate (VPP) catalyst. It is an extremely valuable compound that forms the basis of various elastomers, polyester resins, thermoplastics, and more, with limitless end-use manufacturing capabilities. Research efforts into MA production are subsequently keenly focused on optimizing the benzene-vanadium catalysis routes.

Biomass Tar

Carbon neutrality is a stopgap measure aimed at offsetting the harmful greenhouse gas emissions from big industry, but the only way to tackle manmade climate change is to champion a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels. The problem is that few solutions are as energy-efficient as conventional combustion. Steam reformation of biomass tar could provide the answer to this problem. Current research into biomass tar reformation is focused mainly on resolving the deactivation of catalysts due to carbon formation at all available active sites.

Syngas

One of the most diverse methods of heterogeneous catalysis relies heavily on the use of syngas (synthesis gas), comprising a combination of carbon monoxide and hydrogen. This mixture is traditionally produced via the oxidation of coal with steam, or by partial oxidation of methane. The resultant gas species are useful in the production of fertilizers, fuels, solvents, and other synthetic materials.

Hiden Analytical’s Superior Systems

At Hiden Analytical, we offer an expansive range of gas analysis products suitable for characterizing myriad heterogeneous catalytic processes with far-reaching industrial applicability. Contact us to learn more.