Production of Light Olefins by Catalytic Pyrolysis of Heavy Oil

Abstract

Catalytic pyrolysis is a promising technology for the production of light olefins. In this article, current advances in catalytic pyrolysis with respect to pyrolysis catalysts, technologies and reaction mechanisms are summarized. An experimental laboratory method, based on a confined fluidized bed reactor, has been used to study catalytic pyrolysis of Chinese Daqing atmospheric residue over three different catalysts: LCM-5, CEP-1, and RSCC-29. Analysis of pyrolyzed gases shows that product yields are strongly dependent on catalyst type. The optimal operating conditions vary with catalyst type, but in each case, the yields of total light olefins show maxima with increasing temperature. Pyrolyzed liquids are primarily aromatic components, indicating that the degree of catalytic pyrolysis is very deep. Hydrogen balance analysis shows that the catalytic pyrolysis of heavy oil is capable of producing light olefins with high hydrogen contents.