Heat treatment

The heat treatment industry encompasses processes aimed at altering the properties of metals, among other things, through controlled heating and cooling. The gas atmosphere can then undergo nitriding and carburizing. Reforming, in which hydrocarbons are converted into hydrogen and carbon monoxide, is an important aspect, particularly in relation to shielding gases used in heat treatment to prevent undesirable reactions with the environment. Gas purification is essential to ensure the quality of the shielding gases and to remove impurities that could impair the heat treatment. Specialty chemicals are used to modify the surface properties and chemical composition of the treated materials. Mastering these processes requires highly specialized catalysts, which C&CS supplies for the specific requirements of the heat treatment industry.