Abstract:
Gel-derived crystalline alumina containing at least 40 percent pseudoboehmite and having low cationic and anionic impurity levels is partially dehyrated to an LOI of 22-34 percent, ground to at least 85 percent minus 325 mesh, shaped into spheres by conventional agglomerating devices while adding sufficient water to rise the total water content to 52-65 percent. These shaped spheres, without any ageing treatment, are then heated to a temperature in the range of 350*-650*C for a time necessary to produce the desired strength. The resultant spheres are strong and have a high total porosity, at least 20 percent of which consists of pores in the 120-800 A size range. They are useful as desiccants, active alumina and catalyst supports.