General Knowledge - Chemistry - Discussion

Why we are using Ni only ?

Catalyst is a substance which does not alter the rate of reaction with respect to temp. In hydrogenation of oil Ni is used as catalyst because it increases active centers and increases rate of reaction.

Hydrogenation of oils is a process for converting the oil to fat.for example vanaspathi is made from vegitables oil.

Why we use Ni? not use Cu, Pt, Pd?

Its Ni because Ni act as a catalyst and its stable in nature its not reactive.

Ni is not the only substance.

Raney Nickel is generally used for this purpose, but palladium or Platinum may also be used. But Nickel is cheaper than the least two metals. Raney Nickel is a powder. So it has larger surface area which helps to reduce activation energy more for hydrogenation and may hold a large amount of Hydrogen gas for reaction.

Due to its large reactivity, high structural and thermal stability, Nickel is mostly used in hydrogenation of oil. And it is not soluble in any lab solvents except acids which also gives an advantage.

Ni, Pd or Pt may be used as catalyst in this case.

Yes pt, pd can be used.

Pt can be used also.