Research Report on the Application of Diatom in the Sulfuric Acid Industry
Abstract
This report systematically studies the current application status and technical requirements of diatomite in the sulfuric acid industry. Research indicates that diatomite is mainly applied in catalyst carriers, filtration systems, and auxiliary process links in sulfuric acid production. In terms of catalyst carriers, diatomite plays an irreplaceable role as a carrier for vanadium catalysts. High-quality diatomite carriers can enhance the activity and thermal stability of vanadium catalysts, extending their service life by several years. In filtration applications, diatomite filter aids are used in sulfuric acid purification, acid sludge separation, and other processes, which can effectively remove fine particles of 0.5μm. In the drying process, diatomite is mainly used for waste acid treatment and the adsorption drying of harmful liquids.
Studies on the technical requirements for diatomite algae types show that Melosira, Coscinodiscus, Stephanodiscus, Cyclotella, and Arachnoidiscus are the most suitable algae types for catalyst carriers. Among them, the pore structure of Melosira is considered optimal. There are significant differences in pore size distribution among different algae types: the pore size of Melosira is approximately 0.1μm; the central pore size of Coscinodiscus is 5μm, and the edge pore size is 2μm, with an overall pore size range of 0.1-3.0μm. In terms of chemical composition, diatomite used for catalyst carriers requires a SiO₂ content of more than 65% (more than 90% for high-quality products), a Fe₂O₃ content of less than 1%-4%, and a loss on ignition of less than 10%.
This study provides technical guidance for sulfuric acid enterprises to select appropriate diatomite products and is of great significance for promoting the efficient application of diatomite in the sulfuric acid industry.
Introduction
As an important part of the basic chemical industry, the sulfuric acid production process involves multiple complex technical links, including key steps such as pyrite roasting, sulfur dioxide conversion, and sulfur trioxide absorption. In these processes, the selection and application of materials directly affect production efficiency, product quality, and economic benefits. Diatomite, a natural siliceous sedimentary rock formed by the geological action of ancient diatom remains, has a unique porous structure, high specific surface area, and excellent chemical stability. These characteristics endow diatomite with broad application prospects in the sulfuric acid industry.
At present, the application of diatomite in the sulfuric acid industry is mainly concentrated in three aspects: catalyst carriers, filtration media, and auxiliary process materials. In the field of catalyst carriers, diatomite has a nearly 100-year application history as an ideal carrier for vanadium catalysts. In filtration applications, diatomite filter aids can effectively remove solid impurities in the sulfuric acid production process and improve product purity. In addition, diatomite also plays an important role in auxiliary links such as waste acid treatment and tail gas purification.
However, there are significant differences in the physical and chemical properties of diatomite from different producing areas and with different algae types, which directly affect its application effect in the sulfuric acid industry. Therefore, in-depth research on the algae type characteristics, technical parameter requirements of diatomite, and their relationship with application performance is of important theoretical and practical significance for optimizing the sulfuric acid production process and improving economic benefits. This report will systematically analyze the current application status of diatomite in various links of the sulfuric acid industry, and focus on discussing the technical requirements of diatomite with different algae types, so as to provide a scientific basis for industrial application.
Conclusion
This report focuses on the current application status and technical requirements of diatomite in the sulfuric acid industry. Its core applications include catalyst carriers, filtration systems, and auxiliary processes such as waste acid treatment. Among them, diatomite is irreplaceable as a carrier for vanadium catalysts, and filter aids can remove fine impurities. Technically, five algae types, including Melosir,a are suitable for use as carriers (with Melosira having the optimal pore structure), and diatomite used for catalyst carriers must meet specific requirements for SiO₂ content, Fe₂O₃ content, and loss on ignition. The report points out that the sulfuric acid industry has high requirements for materials, and the characteristics of diatomite endow it with broad application prospects. However, differences in its producing areas and algae types affect the application effect. This research aims to provide guidance for enterprises in product selection, help optimize production, and improve economic benefits.
