Environmentally benign catalytic technology for refining and petrochemical production. A recent review of related R&D activities in China

The research and development activity in China in the field of catalysis has come to a rapid development stage since 1980s, which results in a series of technological innovations. A number of unique catalytic technologies have been invented and commercialized in China such as deep catalytic cracking, distillate selective cracking accompanied by alkene polymerization, liquid phase selective hydrogenation and medium pressure hydro-upgrading process. A variety of new catalysts has been developed and commercially applied in refining and petrochemical industry. The recent work related to developing environmentally benign refining and petrochemical technology is reviewed.