Effect of Textural Properties of Y, ZSM-5 and Beta Zeolites on Their Catalytic Activity in Catalytic Cracking of a Middle Distillate Cut Named RCD

In the present study, performance of three catalysts containing Y, ZSM-5 and Beta zeolite in the catalytic cracking of a kind of middle distillate cut named ”RCD” has been studied. The catalysts were characterized by XRD, FTIR, SEM, N2 adsorption/ desorption and NH3-TPD techniques. Furthermore, deactivated catalysts in terms of type and amount of deposited coke were analysed. Results of catalytic tests showed that Y zeolite performed better and it decreased viscosity and density of liquid product by 35% and 3% respectively. This good operating was due to the high surface area (812m2/gr) and higher acidic sites amounts(1.8 mmol NH3/gr) which gives the heavy molecules better accesibility to active acid sites .But more cokes have deposited on Y zeolite which was 50% lower for Beta and ZSM-5 zeolites. Finally, it can be concluded that the ultimate performance of catalysts in catalytic cracking is influenced by the synergetic effects between the pore structure and acidity.