Improvisation of Coke Quality by Co-Carbonization of Vacuum Residue and Bio Oil: A Batch Process

Abstract

Effects of feed properties during co-carbonization of vacuum residue (VR) and bio oil feed mixed in different proportions in a batch reactor at temperature range of 480°C-490°C and at atmospheric pressure on coke lumps produced after reaction was studied and proposed based on experimental results obtained. Detailed experimental study was done on co-carbonization process of bio-oil and vacuum residue mixed in different proportions in an experimental setup capable of producing solid coke comparable to that produced in commercial delayed coker which helps to study effects of parameters like temperature and pressure on product properties. Product yield and specifications of products and feed were recorded and studied in terms of thermogravimetric analysis. Coke produced was analyzed as compared to Anode grade coke, for its spongy appearance and catalogued based on its properties when compared with anode grade coke. Addition of bio oil to vacuum residue up to 1:1 indeed ameliorate the hardness of coke and reduce the VCM content of coke, transforming it to better quality sponge coke and can be used as anode grade coke. Coke yield was improved by increasing micro carbon residue (MCR) weight percentage. Additionally, asphaltene content of feed directly contribute to solid product yield and gas yield reinforce the anisotropy of coke formed that govern the coke quality. Bio-oil enhance the gas yield till 1/1 mixture required to improve the coke quality.