ADVANCED ZEOLITES USED IN FCC CATALYSTS BOOST MOTOR OCTANE NUMBER

Fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) catalysts that contain an advanced zeolite called LZ-210, have been shown, by commercial trials, to increase the motor octane number (MON) of the FCC gasoline produced. A strong gasoline market and the removal of lead have combined to place a premium on clear gasoline octanes. Because gasoline from FCC units is the largest segment of the refinery pool (up to 40%), its octane numbers are particularly important. Traditional emphasis has been on the research octane number (RON) but motor octanes frequently limit the blending process. This article presents data from commercial trials to support the MON increases, along with some explanations of how the advanced zeolite accomplishes them.