hydrotreating

chemical process

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July 15, 2026

Quick Summary

Hydrotreating, also known as hydrogen treatment, is a common process in petroleum refining used to remove impurities like sulfur and nitrogen from oil. In this process, oil is mixed with high-purity hydrogen and passed over a catalyst at high temperatures (260–425 °C) and pressures (14–70 bars).1

The sulfur is converted into hydrogen sulfide, and nitrogen into ammonia. These byproducts are then removed. Hydrogen sulfide can be used to produce elemental sulfur, while ammonia can be processed into fertilizers. This purification is crucial for meeting product quality standards and environmental regulations in refineries.1

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petroleum refining
Hydrogen treatment
Hydrogen processes, commonly known as hydrotreating, are the most common processes for removing sulfur and nitrogen impurities. The oil is combined with high-purity hydrogen, vapourized, and then passed over a catalyst such as tungsten, nickel, or a mixture of cobalt and molybdenum oxides supported on an alumina base. Operating temperatures…
Read More
Hydrogen processes, commonly known as hydrotreating, are the most common processes for removing sulfur and nitrogen impurities. The oil is combined with high-purity hydrogen, vapourized, and then passed over a catalyst such as tungsten, nickel, or a mixture of cobalt and molybdenum oxides supported on an alumina base. Operating temperatures…
Read More