AM-92-45 Reformulated Gasoline Catalyst's Impact on the FCCU

Description:

As refiners enter the reformulated gasoline era, it is clear that the FCCU will play a major role as a producer of light olefins to be used as feedstock for oxygenate (MTBE/TAME) production. Engelhard has conducted R&D studies which have resulted in the new family of IsoPlusTM FCC catalysts designed to maximize the yields of isobutylene and isoamylenes. The performance properties of these catalysts are such that some changes in FCCU operation will be required in order to take full advantage of their potential yield benefits. Results of the laboratory development studies will be presented along with commercial yield projections for various operating scenarios for maximizing light olefin yields. Isobutylene yield increases of 50-200 % can be achieved compared with a typical current operation. The IsoPlus catalysts are more selective for increasing isobutylene yield than other options such as use of higher riser temperatures or ZSM-5 additives. While it is expected that some investment in the FCCU's gas plant will be required, we expect this to be an economically preferred route compared with alternative supplies of isobutylene produced by isomerization and dehydrogenation of butanes.