摘要 |
A self-supporting structure, particularly for use as a support for a catalyst, e.g. for secondary steam reforming of hydrocarbons, comprises an assembly of interlocking units, preferably of prismatic polygonal, e.g. hexagonal, configuration. Each unit is provided with projections in its upper part enabling the unit to be supported on a complementary projection in the lower part of an adjacent unit and/or on a supporting member of a vessel containing the assembly. As the structure heats or cools, expansion and contraction of the units relative to the containing vessel is accommodated by the structure bowing. |