Petroleum refining

PGM catalysts have been used in petroleum refining since the late 1950s. In catalytic reforming, platinum on alumina converts low-octane hydrocarbon streams into high-octane gasoline components and petrochemical feedstocks.

Platinum catalysts are also used in isomerisation, which rearranges straight-chain hydrocarbons into branched molecules that improve fuel performance. Palladium and platinum catalysts support hydrocracking, in which heavier oil molecules are converted into lighter, higher-value products such as gasoline and diesel. Iridium may be used with platinum in selected reforming catalysts.

Their activity, selectivity and ability to withstand severe operating conditions make PGMs important to efficient refinery operation.