Catalytically inert particles for blending with petroleum cracking catalyst

摘要

A method for converting attapulgite clay which has never been heat treated sufficiently to destroy the natural colloidal properties of the clay to attrition resistant, low surface area, essentially catalytically inert particles adapted for use as a blending agent with particles of active zeolitic cracking catalyst. The clay, preferably mixed with an alkaline cementitious material (such as, for example, portland cement or sodium silicate) is sintered at a temperature above 1350° F., preferably in the range of 1500° F. to 1800° F., to reduce surface area to a value below about 15 m.sup.2 /g, preferably below 5 m. sup.2 /g, and decrease apparent bulk density to a value below 1.1. The material is sized to form an essentially dustless, free flowing powder.