Composition-performance Relationships in Catalysts Formulation for the Direct Conversion of Crude Oil to Chemicals

Abstract

Maximizing the production of petrochemicals from crude oil at the expense of fuels is among the most important targets for refiners. In this conversion, catalyst composition and formulation play a key role. Here we present a thorough study of the effect of formulated FCC catalyst composition on the one-step cracking of Arabian light crude oil. Our results demonstrate that over a 35 wt. % yield to light olefins can be achieved on spray-dried catalysts containing 1 : 1 mixtures of ZSM-5 and FAU zeolites (alongside binder and clay). Coke deposition and catalyst deactivation can be correlated to the nature and content of each zeolite component.