Metal dispersion and distribution in Pd-based PTA catalysts

The influence of the pH of the impregnating H2PdCl4 solution was studied in the preparation of Pd catalysts on granular active carbon. All catalysts were tested in the purification of crude terephthalic acid (4-CBA hydrogenation), in conditions strictly similar to those of industrial operation. The pH of the impregnating H2PdCl4 solution was found to strongly influence both Pd surface area and activity (best results with pH 1.5–2.0), while has a relatively small influence on Pd distribution. A linear relationship between catalytic activity for 4-CBA hydrogenation and Pd surface area was confirmed.