Unconventional Methods to convert Naphtha to Diesel

Abstract

The 21st century has made it imperative for the logistics and transportation industry
to be entirely dependent on the efficiency of the fuel used. The solution that was
provided was that of the use of diesel as a fuel. As the consumption of diesel is
increasing exponentially, novel methods are an immediate need for its surplus
production. In the light of fast depleting fossil fuels, we have to ensure the security
of the cogs of the logistics and transportation industry by looking at unconventional
methods for the production of diesel so that the industry runs smoothly in the future
too. As the global energy demand increases, one of the major problems faced by the
refineries is to meet higher diesel demand. Demand for diesel-powered vehicles has
increased over time and has in turn led to increasing demand for diesel over
gasoline. There is strong surplus of gasoline production than middle distillates, which
include jet fuel, heating kerosene, and gas and diesel oils. Surplus production of
these distillates is a priority. Also the opportunities to incorporate naphtha into the
gasoline pool are continuing to decline day by day, as a result, naphtha is creating
problem to the refineries. A solution to the aforementioned problem may be found
in the form of dieselization process. Dieselization is commonly applied in oil refining
industries to shift yields towards diesel by crude selection, low severity fluid catalytic
cracker operation and increased hydrocracking and residue upgrading. In this article,
emphasis is given to the ways to achieve an increase in diesel output using novel
unconventional methods and moreover, a comparative analysis is done between the
unconventional and conventional methods of production. Some of the conventional
options that refineries consider are well known. But focus here is mainly on
unconventional methods like blending of different components. The preparation of
poly-diesel by Oligomerisation is also taken into account. Another option is using the
Syngas obtained from Steam reforming naphtha unit to produce more middle
distillates via Fischer-Tropsch process. We have also taken into account the use of
olefin components (obtained from LPG and FCC light naphtha) using aromatic
alkylation and later hydrogenating them to produce alkyl-cycloparaffins. Also, an indepth
study is done on how increased diesel output can provide better energy
security and this method is adapted to the Indian scenario.