Catalytic hydrodesulfurization of petroleum middle distillateand model sulfur compounds over a series of catalysts activity and scheme

Abstract

Hydrodesulfurization (HDS) of Gas Oil (G.O.), Light Cycle Oil (L.C.O.) and model sulfur compound 4,6-dimethyldibenzothiophene (4,6-DMDBT) was compared over a series of 6 commercial catalysts and laboratory made catalysts. The difference between the HDS activity of the model compound and the real feed stocks indicates the sensitivity, of the catalyst to the intrinsic inhibitors (aromatics and H2S) present under industrial conditions. Detailed analysis of the HDS products from the model feed provided information on the reaction pathways involved over the present catalysts and how they are modified in presence of inhibitors. Complementary standard tests with other model compounds were examined to determine the Bronsted acidity and hydrogenation activity of each catalyst. Such activities explain the differences in performance of the catalysts and the relative importance of the respective reaction pathways in the HDS.