Discusses the formulation, characterization, microactivity, and pilot-plant testing, and product analysis of fluid cracking catalysts. Examines the use of modern spectroscopic techniques such as infrared spectroscopy, solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy for the analysis of FCC catalysts. Presents the first use of atomic force microscopy in the study of FCC catalysts. Studies the impact of environmental laws on the discovery of novel FCC catalysts.