FURTHER-STUDIES OF CATALYTIC ACTIVITY OF COAL MINERALS IN COAL LIQUEFACTION .2. PERFORMANCE OF IRON AND SRC MINERAL RESIDUE, AS CATALYSTS AND SULFUR SCAVENGERS

The performance of iron and SRC mineral residue, as additives in liquefaction, hydrogenation, and hydrodesulfurization reactions in the SRC process, has been studied in an autoclave reactor. Product distribution (oil, asphaltene, and preasphaltene), sulfur distribution, hydrogen consumption and tetralin/naphthalene (T/N) ratio have been determined using both iron and SRC mineral residue as additives. Iron appeared most attractive as a sulfur scavenger in the SRC process: (1) it is effective in hydrodesulfurization as a sulfur acceptor, and (2) it is somewhat selective with regard to accelerating hydrogenation reactions with minimal contribution to increased hydrogen consumption. SRC mineral residue from process filter cake was observed to be ineffective in hydrodesulfurization, to exhibit no selectivity in the product distribution, and to contribute to excess hydrogen consumption. Iron as a sulfur scavenger in liquefaction, can be used to advantageously alter process variables while still maintaining acceptable product quality. Adequate yield and desulfurization are attainable at lower temperature and perhaps lower pressure if iron is used. Hydrogen consumption can also be significantly reduced when operating at lower temperature with mineral agents. © 1979, American Chemical Society. All rights reserved.