Impact of gasoline and diesel specifications on the refining industry

Future gasoline specifications demand reduction in aromatics, benzene, sulfur, volatility, and boiling point. In response, refiners must modify their processing conditions, catalysis, and mode of operation of catalytic reformers and isomerization units. Diesel fuel is also facing tighter specifications for cetane number, aromatic content, sulfur, and color. To meet these specifications, operational modifications include use of higher activity catalysis, higher hydrotreating severity, and two-stage processing. This paper renews fuel legislation adopted recently worldwide, and refining technology solutions practiced and / or planned to meet the new specifications.