Zeolite Y/Beta Hydrocracking Catalyst for Naphtha Selectivity

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hydrocracking catalysts are not selective enough for producing naphtha, particularly heavy naphtha, in hydrocarbon feedstock conversion processes, despite advancements in catalysts using FAU-type zeolite and beta zeolite.

Innovation Solution

A hydrocracking catalyst comprising a specific ratio of zeolite Y with a crystal lattice parameter greater than 24.42 Å and beta zeolite, combined with hydro-dehydrogenating elements from groups VIB and VIII, enhances selectivity towards the naphtha cut by adjusting the weight ratio of zeolite Y to beta zeolite to greater than 12.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If conventional hydrocracking catalysts are used, then general cracking activity is maintained, but selectivity for naphtha production is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveselectivity for naphtha productionVSAvoidnaphtha yield
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the crystal lattice parameter of zeolite Y to be greater than 24.42 Å, which modifies the pore structure and acid site distribution to enhance naphtha selectivity. This parameter change in the zeolite structure directly addresses the selectivity issue while maintaining cracking activity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a composite catalyst system combining zeolite Y with lattice parameter >24.42 Å and zeolite beta in a specific weight ratio (>12). This composite structure synergistically combines the cracking activity of zeolite Y with the shape selectivity of zeolite beta, achieving both high naphtha selectivity and maintained productivity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Manufacturing precision

If the proportion of zeolite Y is increased to enhance naphtha selectivity, then selectivity improves, but the catalyst composition becomes unbalanced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenaphtha selectivityVSAvoidcatalyst composition balance
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent establishes a specific parameter range for the weight ratio of zeolite Y to zeolite beta (>12), which optimizes the composition balance. This ratio ensures sufficient zeolite Y content for naphtha selectivity while maintaining adequate zeolite beta for structural stability and catalytic balance

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The composite catalyst design with controlled weight ratio >12 creates a stable composition where zeolite Y provides selectivity and zeolite beta provides structural support and additional catalytic function, achieving both high naphtha selectivity and compositional stability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

3Manufacturing precision

If the crystal lattice parameter of zeolite Y is increased to improve naphtha selectivity, then selectivity enhances, but the zeolite structure may become less stable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenaphtha selectivityVSAvoidzeolite structure stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent identifies a critical threshold for the crystal lattice parameter (>24.42 Å) that optimizes the balance between selectivity and stability. Within this parameter range, the zeolite structure maintains its integrity while providing enhanced naphtha selectivity through modified pore geometry and acid site distribution

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Manufacturing precision

If a specific weight ratio of zeolite Y to zeolite beta is used to maximize naphtha selectivity, then selectivity improves, but the catalyst preparation becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenaphtha selectivityVSAvoidcatalyst preparation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent defines a clear parameter criterion (weight ratio >12) that simplifies the preparation process by providing a specific target range. This parameter specification guides the mixing and formulation steps, making the preparation process more controllable and reproducible despite the composite nature of the catalyst

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The catalyst significantly improves the selectivity for naphtha production, achieving higher yields of naphtha fractions compared to conventional catalysts, particularly in hydrocracking processes.

Implementation Method 1

Hydrocracking catalysts are generally classified based on the nature of their acid function, in particular catalysts comprising an amorphous acid function of the silica alumina type and catalysts comprising a zeolitic cracking function such as Y zeolite or beta zeolite

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAcid catalysis: Catalysis

Implementation Method 2

comprising at least one hydro-dehydrogenating element chosen from the group formed by the elements of group VIB and group VIII non-noble of the periodic table

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydro-dehydrogenation: Catalysis

Data Source

PatentEP4440745B1Hydrocracking catalyst comprising a zeolite y and a zeolite beta in a y/beta ratio strictly greater than 12 for naphtha production
Publication Date: 2025.11.12 IFP ENERGIES NOUVELLES

AI summary

The invention describes a hydrocracking catalyst which is selective towards the naphtha cut, and the hydrocracking process utilizing said catalyst, said catalyst comprising at least one hydro-dehydrogenating element selected from the group consisting of group VIB and non-noble group VIII elements, individually or as a mixture, from the periodic table, and a support comprising at least one porous mineral matrix, a zeolite Y having an initial lattice parameter a0 of the unit cell of greater than 24.42 Å, and a zeolite beta, in which the weight ratio of said zeolite Y to said zeolite beta in the catalyst is strictly greater than 12.