Heterogeneous decomposition of perchloric acid on chromium oxide catalysts

Abstract

The effect of chromium oxide on the vapour-phase decomposition of perchloric acid has been studied by the flow system. Chromium oxide showed a catalytic effect even at 110°. It was observed that perchloric acid, especially above 170°, oxidized the chromium oxide. As a result, the activity of the catalyst decreased with time. Kinetic measurements were carried out below 180°, where the change in the activity of chromium oxide is small. The rate of the catalytic decomposition is practically independent of the perchloric acid concentration. The value of the activation energy is 31 kcal. mole^–1. The results are discussed from the point of view of the decomposition mechanism of ammonium perchlorate.