Upgrading heavy oils by non-catalytic treatment with hydrogen and hydrogen transfer solvent

摘要

Heavy liquid hydrocarbon oils such as petroleum derived tars, predominantly boiling over 425°C, are upgraded to products boiling below 425°C, without substantial formation of insoluble char, by heating the heavy oil with hydrogen and a hydrogen transfer solvent in the absence of hydrogenation catalyst at temperatures of about 320°C to 500°C, and a pressure of 20to 180 barfor3 to 30 minutes. The hydrogen transfer solvents are polycyclic compounds free of carbonyl groups, e.g., pyrene, and have a polarographic reduction potential which is less negative than phenanthrene and equal to or more nagative than azapyrene.