1.+Introduction

__Catalytic Fouling __
Fouling is a real life issue that takes place during chemical processes. The deposit of unwanted materials on a surface is defined as fouling, and affects how a chemical process proceeds. Fouling adds a layer of organic, inorganic or even living organisms to the surface which affects the properties of the catalyst and the mechanism of the process. Catalytic fouling is where a process which involves a catalyst forms an unwanted material on the surface of the catalyst. Catalyst provide an alternative pathway for a chemical reaction to proceed, and usually decreases time and energy for the reaction to proceed all the way.

Coke formation is one of the most prominent types of catalytic fouling and is chiefly involved in the deactivation of a catalyst. This coke formation forms a fouled layer on the surface of a catalyst which reduces how much of the surface area of the catalyst is available to the surroundings. With less surface area exposed, a catalyst is less effective. There have been ways developed to prevent catalytic fouling which include, methane steam reforming, catalyst beds, and selective catalytic reduction. These prevention methods help reduce the formation of coke, and can help get rid of coke formation by knocking it off the catalyst. Removing coke can be done many different ways, one is called gasification,which involves converting carbon based substances into carbon monoxide and and hydrogen.

Figuring out new ways to reduce the formation of coke, or new ways to remove coke can greatly increase the life span of a catalyst. With a longer lasting catalyst, one would save money and reduce the environmental impact of discarding fouled catalysts. == ==

The picture above shows the many different ways catalysts can be fouled. The image to the top right depicts an enveloped catalyst pellet. The images to the top left and bottom right depict general fouling an a metal catalyst. The image on the bottom left depicts fouling which occurs on the inside of a catalyst.

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