Catalytic Valorization of Heavy Crude Oil Via Aquathermolysis with Mo2C/S-ZrO2 System

Catalytic aquathermolysis emerges as a new approach to valorize heavy crude oil into lighter compositions with industrial compatibilities. Although several catalytic systems have been tested, certain critical issues remained unresolved. Therefore, the potential of Mo2C/S-ZrO2 as a candidate for upgrading a heavy crude oil with API gravity value of 12.0o was evaluated at the laboratory scale. Successful designed of the Mo2C/S-ZrO2 catalyst was established via FT-IR and XRD studies. Both techniques revealed features that were consistent with disappearance of MoO3 in MoO3/S-ZrO2 precursor and consequent formation of β-type Mo2C. Interestingly, the tetragonal form of ZrO2 was also unaltered by the carburization treatment (i.e. CH4/H2, 750oC, 1.5 h). Additionally, the associated physicochemical properties were strongly responsible for viscosity reduction from 250.25 mPas to 78.30 mPas. Similarly, resins and asphaltenes were successfully ruptured into lighter saturates and aromatics during the process. Thus, the Mo2C/S-ZrO2 system has good potential for this application.