3. Catalytic activation of reactions

3.1 Catalyst types

Reactions are activated by catalysts that can promote isomerization and cyclization as well as dehydrogenation. As a result, the catalyst systems used are multifunctional, i.e. they theoretically possess :

• a hydrogenation-dehydrogenation function, provided by the presence of a metal [this element must be active and stable at reaction temperatures (" 500 ˚C) and its content must be controlled to avoid as far as possible reactions producing undesirable light hydrocarbons (methane)];

• an acid function, provided by the support, with or without the addition of a halogenated compound, which promotes isomerization and cyclization reactions to varying degrees, the acidity having to be controlled...