Week Four Inquiries - Part 1 - Catalysts

1. Catalysts - Did you know that a catalyst is used in the production of some margarines?
1. Metals such as Palladium and Nickel are used in the hydrogenation of oils/fats
1. Let's look at Nickel, shall we - Nickel - atomic number 28, Nickel is a natural cubic crystalline structure is commonly used "in electroplating and metal alloys because of its resistance to corrosion. Also in nickel-cadmium batteries; as a catalyst and for coins." (1)
2. Powdered Nickel assists in the catalytic hydrogenation of the fats by helping the hydrogen atoms to bond to the fatty acid chains, thus altering their structure and hence creating a more solid fat or 'fatty plastic'. The Nickel is removed prior to the cooling of the oil. (2) (Sounds lovely don't it?)

Sources:

1. Margarine and Nickel - http://www.hyfoma.com/en/content/food-branches-processing-manufacturing/oil-margarines-sauces/margarine
2. Hydrogenation - http://www.britannica.com/eb/topic-278814/hydrogenation
3. Info on Nickel - http://environmentalchemistry.com/yogi/periodic/Ni.html#Overview