Promoting catalytic pyrolysis of oil shale over CuO nanosheets

Oil shale especially with low- to moderate maturity represents a strategically important resource due to its abundant reserves and wide global distribution. However, efficient exploration and enhanced recovery of product oil and gas remain challenging with current technologies. In this study, CuO nanosheet catalyst was synthesized and applied to oil shale pyrolysis. The catalyst promotes the cracking of long-chain hydrocarbons into shorter chains, significantly increasing the proportion of light fractions (gasoline and diesel) in product oil and improving overall oil quality. Simultaneously, shale gas production is notably enhanced, primarily in the form of low-molecular-weight methane and hydrogen. CuO nanosheet reduces the pyrolysis temperature and increases conversion efficiency of convertible organic matter into hydrocarbons, leading to improved hydrocarbon recovery rate. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations revealed spontaneous adsorption of kerogen molecules on the surface of CuO nanosheets, with reduced energy barriers for CC and CO bond cleavage. This study provides probable application prospects for the development of unconventional oil shale.