What are the uses of inert ceramic balls? What are their characteristics? Where are they used? Inert ceramic balls are inorganic non-metallic materials with features such as high temperature resistance, corrosion resistance, high mechanical strength, and good chemical stability. They are widely applied in multiple fields including chemical engineering, metallurgy, and environmental protection. The following are their main uses:

The field of industrial catalysis

Catalyst support: In petrochemical, coal chemical and other catalytic reaction devices, it is used to support and protect the catalyst. For example, in a fixed-bed reactor, inert ceramic balls are laid at the bottom of the catalyst bed to prevent the loss of catalyst particles due to pressure differences, and at the same time, evenly distribute gas or liquid, making the reaction more stable and efficient.

Heat distribution uniformization: Due to its good thermal conductivity, it can evenly transfer heat during the reaction process, avoiding local overheating or overcooling, thereby ensuring the activity and service life of the catalyst. For example, in some catalytic reactions that require strict control of reaction temperature, inert ceramic balls can help maintain a stable temperature environment.

The field of chemical packing materials

Tower packing: It is used in various towers (such as distillation columns, absorption towers, stripping towers, etc.) as part of the packing layer. It can increase the contact area between gas and liquid phases, promoting mass and heat transfer processes. For instance, in the distillation column of petroleum refining, inert ceramic ball packing can enable the more thorough separation of crude oil components, enhancing the purity and yield of the products.

Filter medium: With its porous structure and high mechanical strength, it can be used as a filter medium for the purification of liquids or gases. For example, in chemical production, it is used to filter liquids containing solid impurities, removing suspended matter to ensure the smooth progress of subsequent processes.

The field of environmental protection engineering

Wastewater treatment: In equipment such as biological filters and aeration tanks for wastewater treatment, inert ceramic balls can serve as carriers for the attachment and growth of microorganisms, providing a favorable habitat for them and enhancing the efficiency of wastewater treatment. For instance, in the biological contact oxidation method for treating wastewater, the microbial communities attached to the inert ceramic balls can effectively decompose organic matter and nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus in the wastewater.

Exhaust gas treatment: They are used in equipment such as adsorption towers and catalytic combustion devices for exhaust gas treatment. They can act as a support layer for adsorbents or directly participate in the purification process of exhaust gas. For example, in the treatment of some organic exhaust gases, inert ceramic balls can be combined with catalysts, causing catalytic combustion reactions when the exhaust gas passes through, converting harmful substances into harmless carbon dioxide and water.