Catalyst Filler

Natural (clays, diatomite, pumice, asbestos) and synthetic materials (activated carbons, aluminosilicates, silica gel, oxides of magnesium, aluminium or zirconium) are widely used as a base for the application of catalysts. Commercial aluminium oxide in various crystalline forms may be used as a catalyst, adsorbent or inert catalyst filler for research and industrial tasks.

 Use of Aluminium Oxides in Catalytic Processes

Active aluminium oxide is used for the production of catalysts for isomerization, reforming, hydrotreatment and other processes. The properties of the artificially synthesized oxide, used as a catalyst filler, are determined by the morphology and structure of the initial hydroxide and f heat treatment conditions. The industry uses different modifications and forms of active aluminium oxide, which are divided into a number of grades depending on their properties.

A catalyst carrier (support) is a low-activity or inert material, which is necessary to stabilize the surface particles of the active catalytic phase. In heterogenous catalysis, a carrier serves to prevent the sintering or agglomeration of the active component, thus maintaining the necessary area of contact between the agents and the active substance. Catalyst carriers are characterized by thermal stability, high mechanical strength and a significant surface area, which is ensured by their geometry and porous structure. The carrier amount often exceeds the amount of the active component applied.

 Applications of Aluminium Oxide and Hydroxide

Aluminium oxide is used as a catalyst and a catalyst filler and also often serves as an adsorbent for gas drying and removal of hydrocarbon impurities and fluorine-containing compounds from gases, fluids and other media. This material is used for adsorption cleaning of oils, solvent recovery, as a desiccant for equipment preservation. It can also create shielding atmospheres, necessary for humidity protection of food and pharmaceutical products in case of long-term storage. Aluminium oxide is also used for gas, liquid, ion-exchange, adsorption, precipitation-sorption chromatography.

Thermochemically-activated aluminium hydroxide (TCA product) is often used as the main structure-forming element in the production of catalysts, desiccants and sorbents. Active aluminium hydroxide, used as  a catalyst filler, determines the principal characteristics and application properties of the resulting catalysts, such as activity, strength and selectivity.

Microintech has all necessary resources for the production of thermoactivated aluminium hydroxide and special grades of aluminium oxide to ensure the efficient use of catalysts according to the customers’ requirements.