General Storage Requirements
Sealed Protection: Most catalysts require sealed storage to prevent contact with air or moisture, thereby avoiding deactivation caused by oxidation or hydrolysis; some highly active varieties also require an inert gas blanket.
Environmental Control: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from heat sources, ignition sources, and direct sunlight. Most types should be stored at temperatures below 25°C, while some specialized types require refrigerated storage.
Segregation: Store separately from incompatible materials-such as flammables, oxidizers, acids, and compounds containing sulfur, phosphorus, or nitrogen-to prevent hazards or catalyst poisoning/deactivation caused by co-storage.
Specific Requirements for Typical Specialized Categories
Highly Active/Pyrophoric Types: (e.g., Raney nickel, Pd/C, Pt/C) Must be stored sealed and submerged in an inert solvent like ethanol; exposure to air is strictly prohibited. Some short-shelf-life, highly active grades must not be stored for longer than two weeks.
Precious Metal Types: (e.g., Platinum catalysts) Must be sealed and stored under refrigeration below 25°C. Unused portions of opened samples must be resealed; avoid contact with N-, P-, or S-containing substances to prevent catalyst poisoning.
Moisture-Sensitive Types: (e.g., Vanadium oxychloride, transition metal halides) Must be strictly isolated from moist air throughout storage, using pre-dried inert gas for protection to prevent hydrolysis and the formation of corrosive fumes.
Flammable/Explosive Types: (e.g., Peroxide catalysts) Should be stored in small, separate containers at low temperatures with fire and impact protection measures in place. Solids may be wetted with a suitable amount of water, while liquids should be diluted with an inert solvent for storage.
