Residue hydroprocessing: Development of a newhydrodementallation (HDM) catalyst

Abstract

Abstract Increased emphasis is currently being placed on development of improved hydrodemetallation(HDM) catalysts, that maximize metal removal without deactivating excessively, and thus effectively protect the hydrodesulfurization catalysts in fixed-bed multiple reactor systems. With the greater research emphasis in this area, HDM catalysts are emerging as increasingly distinct from conventional hydroprocessing catalysts. By a combination of optimized catalyst pore size and structure, metal impregnation procedures, and improved catalyst preparation techniques, we have been able to develop a new HDM catalyst (RM-430), which combines high metal, removal activity with high metal deposition capacity. In this paper we will discuss the results of testing of RM-430 with various feed-stocks, and also some of the analytical techniques used to analyse the feeds, reaction products, and the resulting aged catalysts.