Activated alumina is not a one-size-fits-all material. Its efficacy in diverse industrial applications—from gas drying and water purification to catalysis—hinges on specific grades, each engineered with distinct properties. Understanding these variations is crucial for procurement managers and process engineers seeking to optimize their operations. As a leading manufacturer and supplier, we aim to demystify these grades to help you make informed choices.

Key Differentiating Properties of Activated Alumina:

The performance of activated alumina is dictated by several key characteristics that vary between grades:

  • Alumina (Al2O3) Content: While most activated aluminas are derived from aluminum oxide, the purity level, often expressed as a percentage of Al2O3, can range. Higher purity generally leads to better adsorption and catalytic performance. Our products typically feature Al2O3 content of ≥93%.
  • Surface Area: Measured in m²/g, this indicates the total available surface for adsorption. Higher surface areas (e.g., ≥300 m²/g) are ideal for demanding desiccant and adsorbent applications.
  • Pore Volume: Expressed in ml/g, this reflects the total pore space within the material, influencing its capacity to hold adsorbed substances.
  • Crush Strength: This is a measure of the force required to crush a single particle, often measured in N/particle. High crush strength is vital for preventing attrition and maintaining bed integrity in dynamic systems.
  • Attrition Loss: This quantifies the amount of material that breaks down into fines during handling or operation. Low attrition loss is a sign of a robust product.
  • Specific Applications (Grading): Manufacturers often assign specific grades (like KA401, KA402, etc.) to denote suitability for particular tasks.

Common Activated Alumina Grades and Their Uses:

While specific product lines may vary, common grades are often tailored for:

  • KA401 (General Adsorbent): Designed for broad adsorption applications, including general gas drying and contaminant removal. This is a versatile option for many industrial drying needs.
  • KA402 (Defluorination): Optimized for selective adsorption of fluoride ions from water, making it highly effective in drinking water treatment.
  • KA403 (H2O2 Production): Specifically formulated for use in hydrogen peroxide production processes, often acting as a catalyst carrier or adsorbent in the anthraquinone process.
  • KA404 (Catalyst Carrier): Engineered with properties ideal for supporting active catalyst materials in reactions like the Claus process or petrochemical conversions. Its high surface area and mechanical strength are key.
  • KA405 (Deep Drying/Air Separation): Suited for the most demanding drying applications, such as the dehydration of air in separation units, achieving extremely low dew points.

Procurement Insights:

When you search for an activated alumina supplier or activated alumina manufacturer in China, understanding these grade distinctions will empower you to select the most efficient and cost-effective product. For example, when looking to buy activated alumina beads for water purification, specifying a grade like KA402 is crucial. Conversely, for catalytic processes, KA404 or similar grades are more appropriate. We, as a dedicated manufacturer, offer detailed specifications for each grade, ensuring you can confidently purchase activated alumina that meets your precise application requirements.

By understanding the nuanced properties of different activated alumina grades, businesses can significantly enhance the performance and efficiency of their critical industrial processes. Consulting with experienced activated alumina suppliers can provide the necessary guidance for optimal material selection.