What Are the Main Catalytic Processes in Oil Refineries?
Several key catalytic processes are employed in oil refineries, including:
Catalytic Cracking: This process breaks down large, heavy hydrocarbon molecules into smaller, more valuable products like gasoline and olefins. Zeolite catalysts are commonly used in this process. Hydrocracking: Similar to catalytic cracking, but operates in the presence of hydrogen. This process produces high-quality diesel and jet fuels and uses catalysts such as nickel and molybdenum on alumina supports. Catalytic Reforming: Converts low-octane naphthas into high-octane gasoline components and aromatic hydrocarbons using platinum-based catalysts. This process also produces hydrogen as a byproduct. Hydrotreating: Removes impurities such as sulfur, nitrogen, and metals from petroleum fractions to improve the quality of the final products. Catalysts used here often include cobalt and molybdenum. Alkylation: Combines light hydrocarbons like propylene and butylene with isobutane to produce high-octane gasoline components. Acidic catalysts, such as sulfuric acid or hydrofluoric acid, are typically used.
