Question

The monometallic catalyst used in the catalytic reforming of naphtha is

• A. Platinum
• B. Nickel
• C. Molybdenum
• D. Cobalt

Hint:

Platinum is the standard monometallic catalyst in catalytic reforming, converting naphtha into high-octane reformate by promoting dehydrogenation and aromatization.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understand catalytic reforming of naphtha. 
Catalytic reforming is a refinery process that converts low-octane naphtha (a petroleum fraction) into high-octane reformate, which is used in gasoline blending. The process involves reactions like:
Dehydrogenation (e.g., converting paraffins to aromatics),
Isomerization,
Dehydrocyclization.
The catalyst enhances these reactions, typically under high temperature and pressure.
Step 2: Identify the catalyst used in catalytic reforming. 
Catalytic reforming traditionally uses a monometallic catalyst consisting of platinum (Pt) supported on an acidic alumina base. Platinum catalyzes dehydrogenation and dehydrocyclization reactions, increasing the octane number by forming aromatics. Modern reforming processes may use bimetallic catalysts (e.g., Pt-Re, Pt-Ir) to improve stability and reduce coke formation, but the original and most common monometallic catalyst is platinum. 
Step 3: Evaluate the options. 
(1) Platinum: Correct, as platinum is the primary monometallic catalyst used in catalytic reforming of naphtha, known for its effectiveness in dehydrogenation and aromatization. Correct.
(2) Nickel: Incorrect, as nickel is typically used in hydrogenation reactions (e.g., in hydrotreating), not catalytic reforming. Incorrect.
(3) Molybdenum: Incorrect, as molybdenum is used in hydrodesulfurization or hydrocracking catalysts, not in catalytic reforming. Incorrect.
(4) Cobalt: Incorrect, as cobalt is also used in hydrotreating or Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, not in catalytic reforming. Incorrect.
Step 4: Select the correct answer. 
The monometallic catalyst used in the catalytic reforming of naphtha is platinum, matching option (1).