Several techniques are used to evaluate the mechanical integrity of catalysts:
1. Compression and Tensile Testing: These tests measure the catalyst's ability to withstand mechanical forces.
2. Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA): This technique assesses how the catalyst's weight changes with temperature, providing insights into thermal stability.
3. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM): SEM images can reveal structural changes and surface morphology, indicating mechanical wear or degradation.
4. X-ray Diffraction (XRD): XRD can identify phase changes or crystallographic alterations under different conditions.
5. Attrition Tests: These tests measure the catalyst's resistance to breaking or wearing down under mechanical stress, often using fluidized bed reactors.
