Troubleshoot silicon contamination on catalysts

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10.01.2010 | Britto, J. M., Braskem S.A., Camacari, Brazil; Reboucas, M. V. , Braskem S.A., Camacari, Brazil; Bessa, I. , Braskem S.A., Camacari, Brazil

What are the sources, impacts and possible solutions to controlling this problem in your hydrotreater?

Keywords: [catalyst] [gasoline] [hydrotreating] [reformer] [ethylene] [naphtha]

Using new upstream technologies and diversified feedstocks from different sources has increased the level of silicon contamination that has a significant impact on hydrotreating catalyst activity. Silicon deposition on hydrotreater catalyst surfaces significantly reduces its desulfurization activity. In addition, silicon deposition renders the catalyst non-regenerable. During regeneration, the silicon would be irreversibly adsorbed onto the entire catalyst surface, thereby further deactivating active sites.

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