In the large-scale production of purified terephthalic acid (PTA), precision and reliability are crucial at every stage. Hydrorefining is a key process that ensures the final product reaches fiber- or bottle-grade quality. In this process, a seemingly ordinary yet indispensable material plays the role of an "unsung hero"—high-performance PTA activated alumina.
I. What is PTA activated alumina?
PTA activated alumina is not ordinary alumina. It is a spherical γ-alumina particle produced through a specialized process to achieve ultra-high purity, high surface area, and high mechanical strength.
Its core function is to serve as a catalyst support. In PTA hydrorefining reactors, the expensive palladium metal catalyst must be highly dispersed across the vast surface area of this alumina support to ensure efficient contact with the process material and to exert its catalytic effect.
II.Why is PTA production inseparable from high-performance alumina?
In the PTA production process, hydrorefining is a core step in removing the impurity 4-CBA and ensuring the purity of the final product. The activated alumina support, which supports the precious metal palladium catalyst, is the cornerstone of this process. Its performance directly determines:
Catalyst efficiency and lifespan: These factors influence the conversion rate of 4-CBA.
Product purity: High-purity alumina prevents the leaching of metallic impurities and ensures the excellent color (low b-value) of PTA.
Unit operational stability: High mechanical strength reduces pressure drop and the risk of catalyst bed pulverization, ensuring long-term, stable operation and avoiding significant losses from unplanned downtime.
Zibo Xiangrun: The Superior Properties of a New Generation of PTA Activated Alumina
Through technological innovation and process optimization, our R&D team has successfully developed a product that fully meets or even exceeds the stringent operating requirements of PTA. Our activated alumina offers the following core advantages:
Ultra-High Purity: Extremely controlled levels of harmful impurities such as Fe, Na, and Si ensure the superior quality of PTA products from the source.
Excellent Mechanical Strength: Utilizing a specialized molding and calcining process, the product exhibits extremely low wear and tear, effectively withstanding the high pressures and fluid erosion within the reactor, significantly extending operating cycles and reducing the risk of downtime.
Optimized Pore Structure: Optimized surface area and pore size distribution provide a perfect platform for achieving high dispersion of the palladium active component and efficient diffusion of reactants, resulting in high catalytic efficiency.
Excellent Hydrothermal Stability: The crystal and pore structures remain stable over time in high-temperature, high-pressure hydrothermal environments, ensuring catalyst activity and longevity.
Creating Core Value for Customers
Cost Reduction and Efficiency Improvement: More competitive pricing helps customers optimize procurement costs.
Supply Security: A stable localized supply chain ensures production continuity.
Reliable Performance: Product performance rivals that of international brands, allowing for direct replacement without requiring adjustments to existing production processes.
Technical Support: Professional and timely technical services and after-sales support are provided to resolve customer issues.