Combining different X-ray characterization techniques for the definitive assessment of composition and chemical structure of metallic contaminants in exhausted catalysts

The composition and chemical structure of toxic heavy metals in spent zeolite, chosen as model system, have been assessed, qualitatively and quantitatively, via a novel characterization procedure, which concerns different X-ray techniques. The developed protocol of analysis can provide an effective tool for the definitive assessment of the level of toxicity and riskiness of exhausted automotive catalysts.