Pilot plants are crucial for several reasons: 1. Validation of Catalysts: Laboratory results may not always predict the performance of a catalyst in a commercial setting. A pilot plant helps in validating the catalyst's efficiency, selectivity, and stability. 2. Optimization: They allow for the optimization of process parameters, such as temperature, pressure, and reactant concentrations. 3. Risk Mitigation: Testing in a pilot plant reduces the risk associated with scaling up a new process, thereby saving time and resources. 4. Data Collection: They provide valuable data that can be used to design full-scale production facilities.
