Polymerization as a limiting factor for light product yields in radiation cracking of heavy oil and bitumen

The kinetic model of radiation-thermal and low-temperature radiation cracking is developed subject to the specificity of radiation-induced processes and the effect of structure in extremely heavy hydrocarbon feedstock. Theoretical calculations are compared with the available experimental data. The dependences of the cracking product yields on temperature, dose and dose rate of ionizing irradiation are analyzed on the base of the developed model subject to the structural state of the feedstock. Radiation-induced polymerization and chemical adsorption are considered as the important factors limiting heavy oil conversion. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.