Processos de Refino Aula 4 Craqueamento Térrmico e Catalítico. Petroquímicos a partir dos alcenos.

Thermal cracking and catalytic cracking are two essential processes in petroleum refining, each with its own distinct characteristics. These two processes involve the following concepts, derivatives, and intermediates of the refining process, which are shown in this video: Light gas oil (GOL), heavy gas oil (GOP), deasphalted oil, fuel oil, bunker oil, deasphalting, RAT, RV, JAV, naphtha, diesel, LPG, lubricants, riser, catalyst regenerator, etc. Thermal cracking involves breaking down petroleum hydrocarbon molecules in the presence of intense heat, without the use of catalysts. This process is generally carried out at high temperatures and pressures, aiming to produce lighter products, such as gasoline and LPG, from heavier petroleum fractions. Thermal cracking is a relatively simple process and generally cheaper compared to catalytic cracking. On the other hand, catalytic cracking is a process that involves breaking down hydrocarbon molecules in the presence of a catalyst, which helps accelerate the chemical reaction. This process is more selective in terms of products produced and operates at lower temperatures than thermal cracking. Catalytic cracking is commonly used in the production of high-octane gasoline and other higher value-added products. The importance of these two refining processes is significant for the oil and gas industry. They allow the production of a variety of refined products with different properties and applications, meeting market demands. Gasoline, diesel, kerosene, and other petroleum-derived products are essential for mobility, power generation, and various other industries. Furthermore, thermal cracking and catalytic cracking are fundamental to optimizing the production of cleaner and more efficient fuels, in line with increasingly stringent environmental and regulatory standards. They also play a crucial role in maximizing the yield of higher-value products, benefiting both refining companies and end consumers. The petrochemical industry depends directly on these processes, since the entire production chain of plastics or polymers uses alkenes (ethene, propene, and butenes) generated in these two cracking processes as raw materials. It is impossible to produce plastics without these two processes. In summary, thermal cracking and catalytic cracking are essential processes in petroleum refining, allowing the efficient production of a variety of refined products vital to modern society. Each of these processes has its own specific advantages and applications, contributing to the diversification of the supply of petroleum products and petrochemical derivatives, essential for meeting market needs.