The present invention is directed to a zeolite Y catalyst having a controlled macropore structure. The present invention is also directed to a zeolite Y catalyst composite and a process for preparing the catalyst composite. The catalyst composite exhibits reduced deactivation rates during the alkylation process, thereby increasing the life of the catalyst. The present invention is also directed to processes for the preparation of carbonated, overbased aromatic sulfonates, which processes comprise alkylation, carbonation of aromatic hydrocarbons with one or more olefins.