Vegetable oils are hydrogenated in the presence of finely divided

The hydrogenation of vegetable oils (converting unsaturated fats to saturated fats) is catalyzed by finely divided nickel metal at elevated temperatures and pressures. Nickel is an excellent hydrogenation catalyst due to its ability to absorb hydrogen and activate both hydrogen and the unsaturated bonds. Alumina, charcoal, and silica are not effective hydrogenation catalysts.