Fluid platinum catalyst processes

While there are hydroformers still operating, reforming today is generally carried out in fixed bed units using platinum catalysts, because of their superior product yield and distribution. Fluid platinum catalyst processes are not feasible because catalyst losses would be too great. 

Method 1. From ammonium chloroplatinate. Place 3 0 g. of ammonium chloroplatinate and 30 g. of A.R. sodium nitrate (1) in Pyrex beaker or porcelain casserole and heat gently at first until the rapid evolution of gas slackens, and then more strongly until a temperature of about 300° is reached. This operation occupies about 15 minutes, and there is no spattering. Maintain the fluid mass at 500-530° for 30 minutes, and allow the mixture to cool. Treat the sohd mass with 50 ml. of water. The brown precipitate of platinum oxide (PtOj.HjO) settles to the bottom. Wash it once or twice by decantation, filter througha hardened filter paper on a Gooch crucible, and wash on the filter until practically free from nitrates. Stop the washing process immediately the precipitate tends to become colloidal (2) traces of sodium nitrate do not affect the efficiency of the catalyst. Dry the oxide in a desiccator, and weigh out portions of the dried material as required. 

The commercial processes available for use can be broadly classified as the moving-bed, fluid-bed, and fixed-bed types. The fluid- and moving-bed processes use mixed nonprecious metal oxide catalysts in units equipped with separate regeneration facilities. Fixed-bed processes use predominantly platinum-containing catalysts in units equipped for cycle, occasional, or no regeneration. 

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