Metal oxides are widely used as heterogeneous catalysts in large-scale reactions, e.g. hydrogenation. The geometry of a catalyst (support) affects its efficiency but also process parameters like pressure drop, heat- and mass transfer. Established shaping methods, i.e. extrusion or tableting are limited in form variations due to process constraints and cost-intensive tooling. Additive manufacturing offers a promising possibility of a geometric flexible catalyst production <i>via</i> layer by layer construction. Nevertheless, 3D printing of functional materials defines new challenges in terms of material development and manufacturing. The complexity of this process chain includes an intense material study, operating adaptions and a thermal post processing. During all steps, the catalytic activity has to be preserved and the requirements of the catalyst structure need to be fulfilled. In addition, the lifetime of a catalyst is also depending on its crush strength influenced by calcination temperature. Against this background, catalyst bodies are 3D printed and analyzed regarding their applicability.

Shaping of catalysts: Additive manufacturing for heterogeneous catalysis

256th National Meeting (2018)

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