What are the Key Catalytic Processes in Refineries?
Several catalytic processes are integral to the operation of petrochemical refineries:
Catalytic Cracking: This process breaks down large hydrocarbon molecules into smaller, more valuable products such as gasoline and olefins. Zeolite catalysts are commonly used in catalytic cracking. Hydrocracking: Similar to catalytic cracking but conducted in the presence of hydrogen, hydrocracking produces high-quality diesel and jet fuels. It uses bifunctional catalysts that combine acidic and metallic sites. Hydrotreating: This process removes impurities such as sulfur, nitrogen, and metals from crude oil fractions. Catalysts containing metals like molybdenum and cobalt are employed. Reforming: Catalytic reforming converts low-octane hydrocarbons into high-octane gasoline components and aromatic compounds. Platinum-based catalysts are typically used.
