Catalytic activation of isopentane-enriched mixtures

The method separates isopentane and n-pentane isomers for catalytic activation at optimized conditions, enhancing the production of olefins and aromatics in pentane-rich streams, addressing inefficiencies in conventional processes and improving fuel and chemical yields.

EP3774700B1Active Publication Date: 2026-07-08PHILLIPS 66 CO

Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
EP · EP
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
PHILLIPS 66 CO
Filing Date
2019-03-26
Publication Date
2026-07-08

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conventional processes are inadequate for efficiently converting pentane-rich hydrocarbon streams into valuable products like transportation fuels and chemicals, while minimizing the production of C1-C4 light paraffins.

Method used

A method involving the separation of isopentane and n-pentane isomers, followed by catalytic activation in distinct reactors at optimized temperatures and pressures to maximize olefins and aromatics production, with optional further conversion through oligomerization and alkylation.

Benefits of technology

Enhances the yield of upgraded products suitable for liquid transportation fuels and chemicals by minimizing the production of undesirable light paraffins, leveraging the differing reactivity of isopentane and n-pentane isomers.

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Abstract

The present disclosure relates generally to processes and systems that produce liquid transportation fuels by converting a hydrocarbon feed stream comprising both isopentane and n- pentane, and optionally, some C6+ hydrocarbons. Isopentane and smaller hydrocarbons are separated to form a first fraction while n-pentane and larger components of the feed stock form a second fraction. The first fraction is then catalytically-activated in a first reactor containing a first activation catalyst, while the second fraction is converted separately in a second reactor containing a second activation catalyst. The conditions maintained in each reactor are selected to maximize the conversion of each fraction to olefins and aromatics, while minimizing the production of C1-C4 light paraffins. In certain embodiments, the first fraction is activated at a lower temperature than the second fraction. Certain embodiments mix at least a portion of the effluents from the first and second activation zones and convert the resulting mixed effluent in either an oligomerization reactor containing an oligomerization catalyst or an oligomerization reactor containing an alkylation catalyst, thereby providing enhanced yields of upgraded hydrocarbon products that are characterized as a liquid transportation fuel or a blend component thereof.
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