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

摘要

Heavy liquid hydrocarbon oil, 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 20 to 180 bar for 3 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 negative than azapyrene.