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1.4.1. Reaction section
Hydrotreating is performed in two steps: the first one is the partial hydrogenation of diolefins
into olefins, and the second one is hydrogenation of olefins, desulfurization and
denitrification.
Catalyst in the first reactor selectively hydrotreats the naphtha feed. Diolefins and a part of
olefins present in the feed are hydrogenated in liquid phase.
In the second reactor, two catalysts are present: The first one (first bed of the reactor) for
hydrogenation and silica removal and the second one (second and third bed of the reactor) for
aromatic hydrogenation, desulfurization and denitrification.
Reactions occurring within the process are principally desulfurization, denitrification,
hydrogenation and elimination of metals.
Desulfurization
Principal sulfur compounds in naphthas are mercaptans, aliphatic and cyclic sulfides and
disulfides. These compounds react readily with hydrogen to produce the corresponding
saturated compound, releasing H
2
S.
Denitrification
Typical nitrogen compounds in naphthas are methylpyrrol and pyridine. Nitrogen is removed
by the breaking of the C-N bond producing an aliphatic compound and ammonia.
Hydrogenation
Hydrogenation is the addition of hydrogen to an unsaturated hydrocarbon to produce a
saturated product.
Elimination of arsenic and other metals
In naphthas, arsenic and other metals are usually in organo-metallic form. After
hydrogenation in the hydrotreater reactor, the hydrogenated form reacts with the hydrotreater
catalyst forming a bimetallic compound. Arsenic and other metals are physically adsorbed on
the catalyst.
Prior to the air condenser, water is injected in order to dissolve chloride, sulphide and
ammonium salts, which precipitate at low temperature. Water is recovered in the boot of the
separator drum.
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