Accelerated aging tests typically involve exposing the catalyst to elevated temperatures, pressures, and concentrations of reactants or poisons. Common methods include:
- Thermal Aging: Increasing the temperature to accelerate sintering or phase transitions. - Chemical Aging: Exposing the catalyst to higher concentrations of reactants or poisons. - Mechanical Aging: Applying stress or vibration to simulate mechanical wear and tear.
These conditions are carefully controlled to replicate potential deactivation mechanisms, such as sintering, poisoning, or fouling.