METHODS AND MIXING SYSTEMS FOR INTRODUCING CATALYST PRECURSOR INTO HEAVY OIL FEEDSTOCK

摘要

Methods and systems for mixing a catalyst precursor with a heavy oil feedstock preparatory to hydroprocessing the heavy oil feedstock in a reactor to form an upgraded feedstock. Achieving thorough dispersion of the catalyst precursor facilitates and maximizes the advantages of the colloidal or molecular hydroprocessing catalyst. A catalyst precursor and a heavy oil feedstock having a viscosity greater than the viscosity of the catalyst precursor are provided. The catalyst precursor is pre-mixed with a hydrocarbon oil diluent, forming a diluted catalyst precursor. The diluted precursor is then mixed with a first portion of the heavy oil feedstock to form a blended oil feedstock composition. Finally, the blended oil feedstock composition is mixed with a second remaining portion of the heavy oil feedstock, resulting in the catalyst precursor being homogeneously dispersed on a colloidal and/or molecular level within the heavy oil feedstock.