What are the Common Chemicals and Catalysts Involved?
Several chemicals and catalysts are frequently used in catalytic processes, each with its own set of hazards:
- Platinum Group Metals: Used in automotive and industrial catalysts, they can be toxic and require careful handling. - Zeolites: Commonly used in petrochemical refining, they can be abrasive and cause respiratory issues if inhaled. - Acid Catalysts: Such as sulfuric acid, used in esterification and alkylation reactions, are highly corrosive. - Base Catalysts: Like sodium hydroxide, used in biodiesel production, are also highly corrosive and can cause severe burns.
