Catalytic Hydroliquefaction of Sapropels

Abstract

Catalytic hydroliquefaction of sapropels differing in organic matter and heteroatom contents in the presence of Fe₂O₃—Al₂O₃—SiO₂, (Co/Mo)Al₂O₃, and (Fe/Ni)Al₂O₃catalysts is studied. The process conditions [(Co/Mo)Al₂O₃catalyst, 450°C, reaction time 1 h, and partial H₂pressure 6 MPa] that maximize the yield of liquid products (53%) and convert the most sapropel organic matter (74%) are determined. It is shown that liquid products of sapropel organic matter degradation contain essentially C₈--C₂₉saturated hydrocarbons and aromatic and naphthenic and oxygen- and nitrogenbearing compounds in much smaller quantities. A scheme is proposed for catalytic hydroliquefaction of sapropel organic matter.