Catalytic reforming – typical catalyst system Identify the commonly used catalyst for catalytic reforming of naphtha to improve octane number and produce aromatics/hydrogen.

Introduction / Context:
Catalytic reforming upgrades low-octane naphtha to high-octane reformate for gasoline blending and generates valuable hydrogen. The process relies on bifunctional catalysis to promote dehydrogenation, isomerization, and cyclization reactions.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Naphtha range feed, presence of paraffins and naphthenes.
• Desired reactions: dehydrogenation to aromatics, isomerization, hydrocracking (controlled).
• Commercial continuous catalyst regeneration (CCR) or semi-regenerative units.

Concept / Approach:
Platinum on chlorided alumina (Pt/Al2O3) is the classic reforming catalyst. Platinum provides dehydrogenation/hydrogenation sites, while acidic alumina (often promoted with chloride) provides isomerization/cyclization functionality. Other metals like rhenium may be added, but the base system is Pt/Al2O3.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Licensors (e.g., UOP, Axens) specify Pt/Al2O3-based systems for reforming, corroborating the choice.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Nickel/iron: Typical for hydrogenation or ammonia synthesis, not reforming selectivity.
• Aluminium chloride: Lewis acid used in alkylation/polymerization, not standard reforming catalyst.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing catalytic reforming with catalytic cracking; FCC uses acidic zeolites at low hydrogen partial pressure, not Pt on alumina.

Final Answer:
platinum on alumina