Fluidized-bed pyrolysis of oil shale

Several quartz isothermal fluidized-bed reactors have been constructed in order to measure kinetics and oil properties relevant to surface retorting by fluidized-bed processes. The rate of volatile total hydrocarbon evolution is measured with a flame ionization detector, although various techniques are currently being evaluated for doing species-selective (as opposed to total hydrocarbon) kinetics. Oil yield experiments are performed separately from the kinetic experiments due to the experimental conditions necessary to minimize mist formation and maximize oil collection. Oil composition is determined via subsequent analysis (gas chromatography). Gas evolution kinetics, oil yield and oil composition are determined both as a function of oil shale parameters (e.g., particle size, grade, Eastern vs. Western deposits) and fluidized-bed parameters (temperature, sweep gas composition, gas velocity, bed particle size, and bed geometry). An ultimate goal is the development of diagnostic methods relating oil composition to processing parameters.