Catalyst Function​

A true catalyst is not changed in state, form or characteristic, or consumed in the reaction. Activated carbon does not have an inert surface and can also promote reactions in its standard or untreated form. The active sites may be due to constituents of the ash present or as a result of oxide or nitrate groups generated during high temperature activation.

Used widely in the manufacture of industrial chemicals like phosgene, sulfuryl chloride and glyphosate, an untreated activated carbon from Kelin utilises the inherent surface reactivity to efficiently produce products with a high yield and minimal by-product formation.

This usage of activated carbon describes where the carbon catalyst acts as an ‘inert’ substrate for impregnation of the active catalyst. This can be a precious metal catalyst in solid form (for reaction) or liquid catalyst (for process enhancement).

Kelin Carbons are leading manufacturers of both types of catalyst support products for a variety of duties, including hydrogenation, fuel desulphurisation (also known as the mercaptan oxidation process) and plastics (PVC) manufacture. Careful control on key parameters, such as attrition, permit the efficient reclamation of the impregnation at the end of the catalyst service life.