Patent attributes
The present invention pertains to a process for regenerating and rejuvenating an additive-based hydrotreating catalyst containing Group VIB and Group VIII hydrogenation metals. The process comprises the steps of regenerating the catalyst by contacting it with an oxygen-containing gas at a maximum temperature of 500° C., followed by rejuvenating the catalyst by contacting it with an organic additive comprising an organic compound, other than a compound that the catalyst is contacted with in the course of its use as a catalyst prior to regeneration and rejuvenation. The organic additive is incorporated into the catalyst. If necessary, the catalyst may then be dried at such a temperature that at least 50% of the additive is maintained in the catalyst. The process according to the invention makes it possible to restore the activity of a used additive-based hydrotreating catalyst to its original level, or even to improve it to above that level.
