Evaluation of Vacuum Residue Decomposition Kinetics with a Catalyst by Thermogravimetric Analysis

The study of thermal developments of heavy oil feedstock, vacuum residue in particular, is a relevant factor for the development of technologies for the processing and production of petroleum products. This paper investigates the process of thermal decomposition of the vacuum residue in the manufacturing of catalyst and polymer material using thermal analysis methods, including thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) in isothermal and dynamic modes. Particular attention is paid to the measurement of kinetic parameters of thermolysis using model and non-model methods, which allows us to assess the output power and other kinetic characteristics of decomposition. The results obtained can be used for the development of new oil refining technologies for significantly increasing the efficiency and safety of processes. During the course of this study, experimental and theoretical activation energy values were obtained for the vacuum residue without a catalyst (experimentally: 91.54 kJ mol−1/theoretically: 91.35 kJ mol−1) and a sample with the presence of a catalyst (experimentally: 89.68 kJ mol−1/theoretically: 90.87 kJ mol−1). The reduction in activation energy in the presence of the catalyst confirms its catalytic activity and potential for processing heavy hydrocarbon feedstock.