Elemental Analysis of Cracking Catalysts by X-Ray Fluorescence

Abstract

X-ray fluorescence analysis has been applied to the routine determination of Al, Si, K, Ca, Ti, Fe, Ni, V, and light rare earths (e.g., La, Ce, Pr, Nd, and Sm) found in petroleum refining catalysts. Two different fusion techniques, using lithium tetraborate, are utilized to cover the elements desired over the necessary concentration ranges. A straight fusion technique can be used for rare earths, Fe, Ni, V, and Al and Ti in used catalysts. A heavy absorber fusion technique is necessary to determine Si and Al in fresh catalysts, clays, or other materials with wide matrix variations.