Catalyat characterisation and methods development for refinery process

Abstract

quotBackground: newlineThe vanadium-based catalyst in SAR fixed-bed reactors facilitates the conversion of newlinesulphur dioxide (SOand#8322;) to sulphur trioxide (SOand#8323;), while mist eliminators protect the newlinecatalyst by removing moisture, acid aerosols, carbon particles, and corrosion debris. newlineLikewise, molecular sieves are extensively employed in gas purification processes newlineacross refinery units to eliminate trace contaminants and maintain process integrity. newlineOver time, these materials undergo chemical, structural, and mechanical degradation, resulting in reduced performance, fines generation, and increased operational costs. This study focuses on elucidating the deactivation mechanisms of SAR catalysts, developing advanced characterization techniques to identify indigenous alternatives to conventional glass fibers, and assessing the structural and functional performance of aged versus conventional molecular sieve adsorbents through advanced analytical methods. These efforts are essential for extending material lifespan, promoting sustainability, and ensuring long-term operational reliability in refinery systems. newline newlineObjective: newlineThe primary objective of this study is to investigate the deactivation mechanisms of newlinevanadium-based catalysts used in SAR fixed-bed reactors and assess the impact of newlinecontaminants on their performance. Additionally, the study aims to develop newlineadvanced characterization methods to identify potential indigenous alternatives to newlineconventional glass fibre mist eliminators. A comparative analysis of aged and newlineconventional molecular sieve adsorbents will also be conducted to evaluate their newlinestructural and functional integrity using advanced analytical techniques. These newlineobjectives collectively support efforts to enhance material durability, process newlinesustainability, and operational reliability in refinery systems. newline newlineMaterials and Methods: newlineSpent and fresh materials were analysed using advanced techniques. Sulfuric acid newlinecatalysts and fines were characterized by LOD, crushing strength, XRF, XRD, FTIR, newlineand XPS.