Oil & chemistry

Oil refining includes various processes such as rectification, separation, thermal and catalytic processes, hydrotreating, hydrocracking etc. Palladium-based catalysts are used in the hydrogenation of oil fractions, the production of lubricating oils and other products. Despite the decorbanosation trend, the demand for catalysts in petrochemicals will remain stable, with palladium offering advantages due to its efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Electrochemistry explores the relationship between electrical energy and chemical changes, with applications in water treatment, metal production and corrosion protection. MMO anodes are gaining popularity due to their energy efficiency, particularly in copper production and wastewater treatment. Palladium enhances electrochemical processes by improving energy efficiency, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional electrodes and supporting applications such as PCB manufacturing with high-quality copper electroplating.

Petrochemistry involves processing hydrocarbons to produce key organic compounds like ethylene and isobutane. Ethylene is crucial for plastics and fuels, while isobutane boosts gasoline octane. The ethylene market is growing due to demand in various industries, and butane isomerisation is expanding with the need for cleaner fuels. Palladium improves process efficiency, reduces energy use and extends catalyst lifespan, especially in ethylene production and hydrogenation.

Palladium is a highly effective catalyst in synthetic chemistry, used in the production of acetylene, pharmaceuticals, acids, fertilisers, explosives and other products. It excels in alcohol oxidation, converting them into aldehydes or acids under mild conditions, minimising byproducts. Palladium is also vital in ammonia and nitric acid production for fertilisers, improving efficiency and reducing platinum loss. In the food industry, it catalyses fat hydrogenation, transforming liquid oils into solid fats with better texture and stability, using milder conditions and improving energy efficiency.