Abstract: The present invention provides a method of preparing a supported catalyst, preferably a hydrocracking catalyst, the method at least comprising the steps of: a) providing a zeolite Y having a bulk silica to alumina ratio (SAR) of at least 10; b) mixing the zeolite Y provided in step a) with a base, water and a surfactant, thereby obtaining a slurry of the zeolite Y; c) reducing the water content of the slurry obtained in step b) thereby obtaining solids with reduced water content, wherein the reducing of the water content in step c) involves the addition of a binder; d) shaping the solids with reduced water content obtained in step c) thereby obtaining a shaped catalyst carrier; e) calcining the shaped catalyst carrier obtained in step d) at a temperature above 300° C.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for producing lithium salts, such as lithium hydroxide and lithium halides, wherein the lithium salts obtained are substantially free of water and optionally other impurities, such as lithium carbonate and/or lithium oxide. Moreover, the present invention refers to lithium salts, such as lithium hydroxide and lithium halides obtainable by said method, as well as their use for the production of e.g. solid electrolytes, lithium metal or lithium carbonate.