Aerogel catalysts

Aerogel catalyst are prepared by the sol-gel method associated with the supercritical drying procedure. The resulting catalysts, in the form of simple or mixed oxides and supported metals exhibit interesting high surface areas and large pore volumes chiefly in the range of the macropores. Their very good resistance to heat treatments allow them to be used for all types of catalysed reactions up to 450–500°C. Aerogel catalysts show in general greater activities and selectivities than the corresponding xerogels. Their stability with time on stream is also remarkable.