Dispersed phase molybdenum catalyst recovery in coprocessing

Dispersed-phase molybdenum catalysts are being used at PETC to enhance the simultaneous conversion of petroleum bottoms material and coal to distillate products. A series of tests were performed in micro-autoclaves, 1-liter semi-batch stirred autoclaves, and a 1-liter continuous unit aimed at maximizing the production distillates while minimizing the catalyst requirements. Similar products yield structures and conversions have been demonstrated using molybdenum concentrations from 200 ppm (based on coal weight) to 1,000 ppm in the 1-liter continuous unit. Dispersed-phase catalysis using molybdenum may require catalyst recovery. This paper examines the potential for the recovery of a dispersed-phase molybdenum catalyst.