AM-17-47 Motiva Unlocks Value in the FCCU through an Innovative Catalyst Solution from Rive and Grace

Description:

Maximizing diffusion of feed into and products out of an FCC catalyst is critical to unlocking the full value potential of an FCC unit in which the riser residence time is only a few seconds. Through a collaborative effort between Motiva, W.R. Grace & Co. (Grace), and Rive Technology (Rive), an innovative catalyst solution incorporating Rive’s mesoporous zeolite was designed and trialed at a Motiva U.S. Gulf Coast (USGC) refinery1. This technology engineers a precise series of mesopores into Y zeolite framework, the primary active component of all FCC catalysts, which consequently enhances diffusion of molecules into and out of the catalyst. The trial results demonstrated the significant value that this technology can bring to an FCC unit. During and since the trial, Motiva has been able to realize uplift in the range of $0.40 to $1.20 /BBLFF (within the boundary of the FCC unit) depending on the market economics. This paper will further investigate Rive’s Molecular Highway technology and how it was successfully used to improve performance at a USGC Motiva refinery.