Phillips 66
Systems for catalytic activation of isopentane-enriched mixtures

Abstract:

Systems operable to produce liquid transportation fuels by converting a hydrocarbon feed stream that comprises both isopentane and n-pentane. The system separates the hydrocarbon feed stream to form a first fraction comprising isopentane and smaller hydrocarbons, and a second fraction comprising n-pentane and larger components of the hydrocarbon feeds stream. Each fraction is then catalytically-activated in a separate activation reactor containing a separate activation catalyst, where the conditions maintained in each reactor are selected to maximize the conversion of each fraction to olefins and aromatics, while minimizing the production of C1-C4 light paraffins. Optionally, the first activation reactor is maintained at a lower temperature than the second activation reactor. Certain embodiments are operable to combine at least a portion of the first and second activation effluents and convert the mixed effluent by either oligomerization or alkylation to produce a liquid transportation fuel or a blend component thereof.