TABLE OF CONTENTS Catalytic processes form the majority of unit operations in the oil industry. Catalysis, therefore, becomes a significant factor in the economic viability and, nowadays, a strong factor in the environmental viability of the industry. Catalyst development and understanding is essential to the majority of refining and petrochemical advances. New technical improvements and breakthroughs depend on catalysis and are expected to come through a molecular-level understanding of the processes. The oil industry would need continued catalysis support to change its product portfolio with environment friendly technologies.
Environmental regulations have moved towards more extreme levels. In terms of sulfur, for instance, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proceeded with a tough rule to slash the current average sulfur in gasoline to 30 ppm, which has been phased in from 2004 to 2006. Beginning 2004, refiners and importers had to make or sell gasoline with the average production capped at 300 ppm and corporate sulfur levels averaging 120 ppm. In 2005, the refinery average was set at 30 ppm, with a production cap of 300 ppm and a corporate average of 90 ppm. In 2006, refiners are expected to meet the 30 ppm average sulfur level, with a cap of 80 ppm. It is clear, that the trend is converging to zero sulfur.
The environmental regulations and product quality standards in USA and Europe are being copied by different countries propagating through integrated market blocks or market agreements between larger oil companies. This can also lead to collaborations for development...
