(138b) Light Naphtha Isomerization Chlorided Alumina Catalyst Deactivation

Light naphtha isomerization has been used for over fifty years to increase the octane of light naphtha streams and to manage benzene.  It continues to be important today as refiners limit gasoline benzene content to comply with MSAT II regulations, and must offset the resulting octane loss.   Chlorided alumina type catalysts are most commonly used for light naphtha isomerization, and their deactivation can have a serious effect on a refiner’s ability to produce gasoline.  

This paper will focus on optimizing chlorided alumina catalyst performance, particularly stability.  The key data for tracking catalyst performance will be identified, followed by a discussion of the causes of both temporary and permanent catalyst deactivation and unit monitoring to detect loss of catalyst activity.