Pore structure modification of diatomite as sulfuric acid catalyst support by high energy electron beam irradiation and hydrothermal treatment.

Highlights: [•] High energy electron beam (HEEB) irradiation and hydrothermal treatment were used. [•] HEEB irradiation could make the impurities in the pores of diatomite loose. [•] Hydrothermal treatment (HT) could remove these impurities from the pores. [•] They could effectively improve pore size distribution and decrease the bulk density. [•] Catalytic performance of the corresponding catalyst was significantly improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]