Optimization of diesel fuel quality and production by hydrotreated gasoil mixtures using Co-Mo/γAl2O3 catalysts

Abstract This study investigates methods for optimizing diesel fuel production through hydrotreating mixtures of straight-run gas oil (SRGO), cooking gasoil, and light cycle oil (LCO). Experiments were conducted in a micropilot fixed-bed reactor using two catalysts: an industrial Co-Mo/γAl 2 O 3 catalyst and a laboratory-prepared Co-Mo/γ-Al 2 O 3 catalyst. The operating conditions included temperatures of 340 °C, 360 °C, and 380 °C; a pressure of 75 bar, liquid hourly space velocities (LHSV) of 1 h⁻ 1 and 1.5 h⁻ 1 , and an H 2 /feedstock ratio of 500 Ncm 3 /cm 3 . The hydrotreated products were thoroughly analyzed for key properties, including density, degree of desulfurization, hydrogenation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and total aromatics, diesel index, lubricity, and pour point. The objective was to produce diesel fuels that meet the specifications of the European EN 590 standard. Graphical abstract