Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
CHAPTER 13
Future Perspectives
The consumption of hydroprocessing catalysts and the associated generation of spent
catalysts will be influenced by the future developments in petroleum refining. It is anticipated
that during the next few years the consumption of crude will increase until it may level off
before it will begin to decline under the pressure of environmental lobby. In view of the
political turmoil and other problems in various parts of the world, it is not easy to make an
accurate prediction. However, a gradual decline in the supply of light and medium crudes,
offset by an increased supply of heavy and extra heavy crudes, seems to be inevitable. Then,
even during the period of an unchanged crude consumption, generation of spent catalysts will
increase because heavy and extra heavy crudes will account for a greater portion of the overall
crude envelope.
Transportation sector accounts for a large portion of emissions, such as CO 2 ,SO X ,NO X , and
particulates. In the case of diesel fuel, sulfur in the fuel affects the performance of catalysts in
catalytic converters. Consequently, emissions of NO X and particulate matter are increased.
These problems may be alleviated by using an ultra low sulfur fuels. In petroleum refineries,
this translates into an increased consumption of catalyst and hydrogen. The development of
advanced catalysts, which can out perform currently used catalysts, may be another option to
deal with these problems. Nevertheless, it is unlikely that all challenges, which petroleum
industry will be facing, can be met without increased catalyst consumption.
The companies who received certification from regulatory authorities, which allows them to
carry out environmental services to petroleum refineries, have to be ready to deal with the
increased volume of spent catalysts. Also, novel catalysts introduced on the market may
require modifications of the established procedures. In this regard, some exploratory research
may be necessary to ensure safety and environmental compliance.
The stringent environmental regulations that are in effect today have been continuously
evolving, i.e., becoming even more stringent. Therefore, all activities and developments in this
area have to be carefully monitored. In this regard, a team of experts and/or expert companies,
who obtained certifications from regulatory authorities, can play a key role in assisting
petroleum refineries in making decision on the final fate of spent hydroprocessing catalysts.
The companies with the expertise dedicated to TCM can be called up to provide necessary
technical support and economic evaluations.
321
 
Search WWH ::




Custom Search