Several catalytic processes are fundamental in the petrochemical industry:
Cracking: The process of breaking down large hydrocarbon molecules into smaller ones. Catalytic cracking uses zeolites to produce gasoline and other light hydrocarbons from heavy crude oil fractions. Reforming: Used to convert naphtha into high-octane gasoline components and aromatic compounds. Platinum-based catalysts are commonly used in this process. Polymerization: Catalysts like Ziegler-Natta are used to polymerize ethylene and propylene into polyethylene and polypropylene, respectively, which are key raw materials for plastics. Hydroprocessing: This includes hydrocracking and hydrotreating, where catalysts like molybdenum and cobalt are used to remove sulfur and nitrogen impurities and to break down heavy hydrocarbons into lighter, more valuable products.
