Zirconium Oxide (ZrO2) – Improves surface area

Zirconium Oxide (ZrO₂) – Enhancing Surface Area and Catalyst Stability

At B.F.S, we offer high-performance Zirconium Oxide (ZrO₂), a robust and versatile support or promoter material widely used in heterogeneous catalysis. Known for its high thermal stability, mechanical strength, and ability to increase surface area, ZrO₂ is a key component in next-generation catalyst systems.

🌟 Key Benefits of ZrO₂ in Catalytic Applications

Property	Catalytic Advantage
High surface area	Increases dispersion of active metal particles
Thermal stability	Resists sintering and phase changes at high temperatures
Acid–base versatility	Enables tuning of catalyst surface chemistry (amphoteric nature)
Oxygen storage/release capacity	Useful in redox reactions and automotive applications
Mechanical durability	Enhances life cycle of catalyst under harsh reaction environments

🔍 Applications of ZrO₂ in Catalysts

Zirconium Oxide is used in a wide range of catalytic processes, including:

• Three-way automotive catalysts (TWC)
• Steam reforming and dry reforming of methane
• CO oxidation and NOₓ reduction
• Fischer–Tropsch synthesis
• Biodiesel production (transesterification reactions)
• Hydrotreating and hydrocracking (as promoter/support)

🧪 ZrO₂ Grades Offered by B.F.S

Grade	Surface Area (m²/g)	Form	Recommended Use
BFS-ZrO2-HP	80–120	Powder	Reforming, oxidation, environmental catalysts
BFS-ZrO2-SA	40–60	Granular	Hydroprocessing, desulfurization
BFS-ZrO2-CS	10–30	Spherical	Ceramic and structural catalyst carriers

Each grade is available in tailored particle size distributions, calcined forms, and with controlled porosity for specific reactor requirements.

🔬 ZrO₂ as Catalyst Support or Promoter

ZrO₂ enhances the dispersion and anchoring of noble metals (e.g., Pd, Pt, Ru), improving activity and durability. Its amphoteric surface properties allow it to function well in both acid-catalyzed and base-catalyzed reactions.In bimetallic systems, ZrO₂ is often combined with Al₂O₃, SiO₂, or CeO₂ to create multifunctional supports with tuned textural and chemical properties.

♻️ Environmental and Industrial Impact

• Automotive emission control: ZrO₂ stores and releases oxygen to maintain stoichiometric combustion.
• Waste gas purification: Acts as a backbone for redox-active catalysts.
• CO₂ utilization and reforming: Enhances stability and selectivity in high-temperature operations.