Frans Lodewijk Plantenga

89 “Nebula”: A hydroprocessing catalyst with breakthrough activity

Abstract In this paper a new catalyst technology called NEBULA is presented. It has been developed by ExxonMobil, Akzo Nobel and Nippon Ketjen. NEBULA is based on a novel copound and it is several times more active than the hydroprocessing catalysts used in todays industrial units. The new catalyst has a much higher activity for desulfurization, dentrogenation and hydrogenation than the conventional CoMo and NiMo on alumina catalysts. The NEBULA catalyst currently in use in several commercial installations represents the biggest step forward in hydroprocessing over the last years. In this paper we will focus on the development of the NEBULA technology and on the applications for which it is appropriate.

Mild and Conventional Hydrocracking: Process Conditions, Products and Catalysts

Abstract A broad outline on a number of phenomena occurring in hydrocracking is presented. Starting with partial conversion at relatively low pressures, commonly referred to as mild hydrocracking (MHC) we describe the effect of increasing pressure on conversion, nitrogen removal and catalyst stability. The relative performance of different catalysts is compared as a function of pressure as well. It is shown that the product distribution can be altered with the process parameters and through the choice of the catalyst. The observed phenomena are related to the commonly accepted reaction mechanisms used in bifunctional catalysis.

118 New developments in resid hydroprocessing

Abstract Heavier feedstocks, and increasingly stringent sulfur, specifications lead to laborious operation in resid hydroprocessing units. Asphaltene, in particular, is a dominant component influencing catalyst deactivation, oil stability and sediment formation. It is necessary to treat asphaltene properly to prevent sediment formation and to ensure a longer catalyst, life. To meet such requirements, Nippon Ketjen and Akzo Nobel Catalysts have developed new heavy residual oil upgrading catalysts, KFR 22 for fixed-bed, and KF 1312, 1311, 1302T and 1302T2 for ebullated-bed processes. These new products enable better sediment control combined with excellent desulfurization and asphaltene cracking performance.