Researchers at Kazan Federal University (KFU) have developed a water-soluble nickel-based catalyst that improves the quality and volume of synthetic oil during hydrothermal treatment. The results can be implemented in existing extraction technologies.
We have achieved not only an increase in yield, but also a tangible "lightening" of synthetic oil under realistic hydrothermal treatment conditions
Experiments have shown that the addition of nickel sulfate increases the yield (amount produced) of synthetic oil by 6–11.5%, depending on the reservoir temperature. At 350 degrees, the greatest increase and improvement in the quality characteristics of the product are observed.
The catalyst promotes the conversion of heavy components into lighter hydrocarbons. When the rock is heated to 350–400 degrees, hydrogenation and destruction of resins and asphaltenes to aliphatic and aromatic compounds occur. This increases the hydrogen-to-carbon ratio and reduces the sulfur content.
KFU scientists note that the method can be integrated into existing steam-thermal technologies for developing low-permeability reservoirs and oil-source rocks. This will allow producing high-quality synthetic oil, reducing hydrocarbon emissions, and increasing production efficiency due to improved wettability of the pore space.
