Several techniques are employed for surface preparation, each with its advantages and specific applications:
1. Mechanical Cleaning: This involves physically removing contaminants by abrasion, polishing, or blasting. It is often used for initial cleaning but may not be sufficient for high-precision applications. 2. Chemical Cleaning: Chemical agents are used to dissolve and remove contaminants. Common chemicals include acids, bases, and solvents. This method is effective for removing organic and inorganic impurities. 3. Thermal Treatment: Heating the catalyst can help in decomposing and vaporizing volatile contaminants. It also helps in restructuring the surface to enhance its properties. 4. Plasma Treatment: Plasma is used to modify the surface at a microscopic level. This method is particularly effective for creating specific functional groups on the surface. 5. Electrochemical Cleaning: This involves using an electric current to remove impurities. It is often used for metal catalysts and can provide highly clean surfaces.
