Raney nickel

Raney nickel is a finely divided form of nickel metal used as a catalyst in chemical reactions, particularly in hydrogenation processes where it adds hydrogen to substances like oils and fats. It is produced by alloying nickel with aluminum, then removing the aluminum to create a highly porous, large-surface-area material. This structure provides many active sites for chemical reactions to occur efficiently. Raney nickel is valued for its high reactivity, selectivity, and ability to speed up hydrogenation without requiring high temperatures or pressures, making it an essential tool in industries like pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and food processing.