Sulfation can be achieved through several methods, including:
- Impregnation: The catalyst support is soaked in a solution containing sulfuric acid or other sulfate salts, followed by drying and calcination. - Precipitation: Sulfate ions are precipitated onto the catalyst surface from a solution, often with the help of a co-precipitant. - Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): Sulfate groups are introduced onto the catalyst surface using gaseous precursors.
Each method has its own set of advantages and limitations, affecting the distribution and concentration of the sulfate groups.