6. Catalyst preparation and processing

6.1 Catalyst selection

The choice of a catalyst for a given process is based not only on knowledge of its three fundamental properties (activity, stability, selectivity), but is also conditioned by numerous other properties linked to its industrial application. Its morphology (grain shape and size) and mechanical strength are determined by the type of reactor used. In the case of highly endothermic or exothermic reactions, the thermal characteristics of the catalysts are essential: good thermal conductivity limits temperature gradients within the grains and in the catalyst bed. On the other hand, thermal conductivity must be high if the catalyst is used to transport heat (e.g. in catalytic cracking (FCC)) from the regenerator to the reactor, or very low if the temperature is to rise...