Why is Catalytic Cracking Preferred Over Thermal Cracking?
While thermal cracking is effective, catalytic cracking offers several advantages. Catalytic cracking uses a catalyst to lower the activation energy required for the cracking process, allowing it to occur at lower temperatures and pressures. This results in higher selectivity and yield of desirable products such as gasoline and olefins. Additionally, catalysts can be tailored to favor the production of specific products.
