Industrial catalytic processes

Industrial catalytic processes can be broadly classified into five major sector as shown in the Fig. 1

Fig. 1. Classification of industrial catalytic processes

 

In this section few representative processes will be discussed emphasizing on the catalyst used, reaction kinetics and catalyst deactivation, if any.

Steam reforming

Synthesis gas or hydrogen is produced most commonly by steam reforming of hydrocarbons. Feed is mostly natural gas or naphtha. Overall process involves mainly six catalytic steps:

1. 1. Purification of hydrocarbons

2. Primary steam reforming

3. Secondary steam reforming

4. High temperature water gas shift reaction

5. Low temperature water gas shift reaction

6. Methanation

Fig 2 shows the schematic flow diagram for hydrogen production by steam reforming of natural gas. The various catalytic steps are discussed below.