What Are the Challenges in Catalysis for Oil Refineries?
One of the primary challenges in catalysis for oil refineries is catalyst deactivation. Catalysts can lose their activity over time due to factors such as:
Coking: The deposition of carbonaceous materials on the catalyst surface, blocking active sites. Poisoning: The presence of impurities like sulfur and nitrogen that bind to active sites and inhibit catalytic activity. Sintering: The agglomeration of catalyst particles at high temperatures, reducing the surface area available for reactions.
Addressing these challenges involves developing more robust and resilient catalysts, as well as implementing effective regeneration and replacement strategies.
