Chemistry
How Zeolites Act as Shape-Selective Catalysts in Petrochemical Cracking
Quick fact
Zeolites in catalytic cracking are so shape-selective that they can increase gasoline yield by up to 40% while producing less coke and gas, saving billions of dollars and reducing environmental impact.
Why this is interesting
Refineries turn heavy crude oil into gasoline through a secret magic trick: a porous rock that only lets the right molecules pass. How can a solid material be so picky?