Physico-Chemical Analysis of Industrial Catalysts

This book describes the principal physico-chemical techniques for characterising the catalysts used in searching for new active phases, optimising the formulation and monitoring industrial production. Based on courses given at the Institut Francais du Petrole for research technicians in the fields of kinetics and catalysis, it covers useful basic theory and provides numerous examples of industrial applications. The techniques developed cover various fields, including textural characterisation, elementary and structural analysis and the analysis of composition and surface sites. The book describes the major phases of the technique's development and industrial application, presents its basic concepts and provides a general description of industrial equipment, all in a manner that is fully accessible to the non-specialist. There is a particular focus on measurement (sample handling, test duration, calibration procedures, etc) and performance (precision, application limits, possible errors and artefacts), illustrated by concrete examples of catalyst analysis. The applications presented highlight the various ways of monitoring the quality of solids during various processes (preparation, activation, industrial use, aging, etc) and illustrate the role of each technique in resolving practical industrial problems. This guide is a companion for technicians and chemical engineers whose work requires an understanding of the fields of application, including the capabilities and the limits of today's complex characterisation techniques.