Maximizing n-alkane hydroisomerization: the interplay of phase, feed complexity and zeolite catalyst mixing

Abstract

Mixing of zeolites with different pore sizes enhances the yield of skeletal isomers from pure n-alkanes, but this synergic effect is limited in n-alkane mixtures because of preferential adsorption and cracking of the longest molecules. Single-Event MicroKinetic (SEMK) analysis reveals that enhanced yields of skeletal isomers can be obtained even with n-alkane mixtures, provided that the hydroisomerization reaction is performed under liquid-phase reaction conditions. Skeletal isomerization of linear alkanes is an essential process of fossil and renewable hydrocarbon fuel and lubricant production. The SEMK model enables the selection of optimum catalyst formulation and reaction conditions for superior paraffinic wax hydroconversion.