Zn/HY-Zeolite as a Catalyst for Upgrading Iraqi Heavy Crude Oil Using Aquathermolysis Method

Abstract

Upgrading heavy crude oil from East of Baghdad oilfield using a high pressure reactor with steam supplied and toluene as hydrogen donor has been investigated through aquathermolysis process. Synthesized Zn/HY Zeolite, which is characterized by XRD, SEM, EDX, FT-IR, BET-surface area and pore volume has been employed as a bi-functional catalyst. Statistical design of experiment (DOE) is also applying in determine the optimum operating conditions of aquathermolysis reaction under different temperatures, time and weight percentage of catalyst with the targeted response being the viscosity after upgrading. The extent of upgrading might be established through various analyses of the initial unconventional oil and final produced crude oil. These were included the measurements of oil density, API gravity, oil viscosity, flash point, pour point, sulfur content and yield of light and intermediate fractions. The results show that the optimum operating conditions are found at 0.25 wt% of catalyst, 231.25°C and 30 h reaction time. The experimental data under these conditions has confirmed that the viscosity and sulfur are decreased by 67.25% and 55.58% respectively, whilst the API has increased up to 24.5. The response surface regression model equation in coded unit for viscosity reduction percentage has been established.