Kinetic rates, Mass transfer, Deactivation, Characterization
(25 points)
1. Each question is 1 point
a Why is it important to disperse the catalytic component onto a high surface area carrier material such as γAl2O3?
b What is a practical observation for determining the rate limiting step during testing of a catalyst?
c List at least 3 different processes than can lead to catalyst deactivation.
d Explain the characterization method(s) used to determine the extent of each deactivation for each process.
e What can you do to enhance the activity of a catalyst itself when it is controlled by chemical reaction?
2. (total = 4 points)
A vehicle painting facility must abate toluene emissions (toluene is the solvent used to disperse the colored pigments). You are working for a catalyst company at a very high salary since you are a catalyst expert from Columbia. The company history suggests using 1%Pt on Al2O3 washcoated on the walls of a 400 cpsi/6.5 ceramic monolith is a good choice initially for your lab testing but you have the option to select a different monolith and dimensions. What different monolith and reactor dimensions (diameter, length while maintaining the same SV) would you adjust to enhance the rate for BMT control? Discuss why there are penalties for making these changes
3. (total = 6 points)
3a. (2 points) How are reaction orders for a HC and O2 determined in the rate equation below?
Consider Rate = k (HC)x(O2)y
3b. (2 points) How can you change the Rate of conversion knowing the reaction orders?
3c. (2 points) Show one experimental method to determine the activation energy for a reaction for which the order (s) are not known.
4. (total 6 points)
The first oxidation catalyst used in the US in 1975 for abating
