Abstract: A filtering medium and method for removing contaminants from an organic-based feed stream which includes the use of a layer of ceramic filter units having a plurality of elliptical or trisoidal openings extending therethrough to filter organic-based feed streams and to provide liquid distribution upstream of the catalyst beds.

Abstract: A method for removing contaminants from an process stream that includes the use of reticulated material to filter the process stream. The reticulated material also facilitate process stream flow distribution in process units. The reticulated material can be packed with a void space between a substantial number of the reticulated material that can be varied to enhance filtration and flow distribution. The method of filtering also provides a method of removing contaminants leaving process equipment. The methods can be used on a variety of process streams and process equipment. The reticulated material can include ceramics, metallic materials, and chemical vapor deposition elements. The reticulated material can be of various shapes and sizes, and can also be catalytically active.