Accurate 3D Characterization of Catalytic Bodies Surface by Scanning Electron Microscopy

Abstract

Catalytic bodies of millimetric dimensions are frequently used in industrial catalysis. The engineering process applied on the raw nanocatalyst during the fabrication and the working conditions affect the spatial and chemical relations of the exposed surface of the catalytic device. Hence, for improving their synthesis and for monitoring the evolution during its life cycle it is important understanding the actual heterogeneities of their surfaces. In this work scanning electron microscopy, photogrammetry and X-Ray spectroscopy are combined to perform physico-chemical characterization in three-dimensions and with high resolution of the surface of commercial water gas shift catalyst bodies. By analyzing a phase of carbon present on their surface we show that the method provides measurements that are at the same time reliable, accurate and precise.