Method for the hydroconversion of oil feedstocks using slurry technology, allowing the recovery of metals from the catalyst and the feedstock, comprising an extraction step

Abstract

A process for the hydroconversion of heavy oil feedstocks comprises a step for hydroconversion of the feedstock in at least one reactor containing a catalyst in slurry mode used to recover metals from the residual unconverted fraction, especially those used as catalysts. The process comprises a hydroconversion step, a gas / liquid separation step, at least one liquid / liquid extraction step, a combustion step, a metals extraction step and a step for the preparation of catalytic solutions which are recycled to the hydroconversion step.

Description

[0001]The invention relates to a process for the hydroconversion of heavy oil feedstocks into lighter products, which can be upcycled as fuels and / or raw materials for petrochemicals. More particularly, the invention relates to a process for the hydroconversion of heavy oil feedstocks comprising a step for hydroconversion of the feedstock in at least one reactor containing a catalyst in slurry mode used to recover metals from the residual unconverted fraction, especially those used as catalysts, in order to re-use them as catalytic solutions and recycle them upstream of the slurry conversion process. The process comprises a hydroconversion step, a gas / liquid separation step, at least one liquid / liquid extraction step, a combustion step, a metals extraction step and a step for the preparation of catalytic solutions which are recycled to the hydroconversion step.[0002]The conversion of heavy oil feedstocks into liquid products may be carried out by heat treatments or by hydrogenation ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a process for upgrading heavy oil using a slurry catalyst. The slurry catalyst is continuously injected with the feedstock and improves the hydrogenation of radicals and reduction of coke. The hydrotreatment and hydrocracking after hydroconversion can be carried out using a high-pressure high-temperature separator. The residual fraction from the separation without decompression is then directed towards a liquid-liquid extraction step to concentrate the metals and maximize the yield of liquid effluent for further treatment. The extraction is carried out using high boiling point solvents at high temperature, allowing better separation of insoluble compounds containing the metals. The technical effects of this patent include improved upgrading of heavy oil with reduced coke formation and improved fuel yield.

Problems solved by technology

The characteristic of slurry processes is that the catalyst is finely divided and not supported on a mineral phase; this renders recovery of the metals much more complex than with the traditionally employed supported refining catalysts.

The issue in the industrial development of hydroconversion processes using slurry technology is the necessity of recovering and recycling the metals of the catalysts.

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