A mathematical programming approach to maximizing profit in residual catalytic cracking through altering the use of the catalyst

RFCC is an economically important process in refinery that involves complex interactions between yields and operating conditions. This paper will focus on the use of catalyst in order to maximize profits while accounting for CO2 emissions. Based on a literature review a conceptual model is proposed and three scenarios for increasing profits are proposed: i) decreasing the catalyst to oil ratio, ii) blending coked catalyst with the regenerated catalyst, and iii) decreasing the incidence of the valuable rare earth oxides in the catalyst. The conceptual model is applied to data found in [12] in order to analyze the possible scenarios. Base on the analysis it is concluded that each of the scenarios have a positive effect on the total profits generated, with the decrease in the c/o ratio having the greatest impact. The highest profit is obtained through combining all three scenarios.