Characterization of Ni-Phases and Their Transformations in Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC) Catalysts: Comparison of Conventional Versus Boron-Based Ni-Passivation

Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC) has traditionally been a key refining process in generating transportation fuels. Recently, the focus on FCC further intensified as it plays an increasingly important role generation of building blocks for petrochemical industry. Nickel is considered one most challenging contaminants and originates from Ni-containing compounds petroleum fractions, not only during unit operation but also handling equilibrium spent catalysts. Despite this critical throughout complete lifecycle catalyst, nature Ni yet well understood at various stages its journey after depositing catalyst surface. The main objective contribution qualitative quantitative identification possible phases that are usually present (Ecat). A series conventional advanced analytical techniques have employed, including XRF, ICP-AES, PXRD, FT-IR, UV-Vis-NIR, SEM-EDS, TEM/HRTEM STEM/EXDS, XPS, RAMAN TPR-H2, prototype Ni-impregnated SiO2, Al2O3 USY zeolite samples, lab-deactivated catalysts obtained different refineries. Detailed analysis results basis background information, showed strengths weaknesses methods. It was shown powder x-ray diffraction (pxrd) can be effectively used determination NiO (bunsenite) phase levels representative comparison versus boron-based Ni-passivation presented. technology (BBT) keep less-reducible state, hindering deleterious operations.