Petroleum Coke is a solid byproduct of oil refining that has multiple industrial applications. It is a vital energy source and a carbon-based advanced material that plays a crucial role in many sectors. The demand for refined fuel continues to grow, while its environmental footprint is reduced, thanks to new technologies, innovative public policies and supportive public policy. While environmental regulations or carbon emission standards could slow down growth, the continued use of innovation can help maintain pet coke’s competitiveness and relevance in the global market.
The calcined petroleum coke is used as a reduction agent in the production of steel. This low-ash material plays a crucial role in the blast furnace. It helps convert iron ore to molten steel. By acting as a reducing agent, petroleum coke increases the energy efficiency of the blast furnace and reduces the overall cost of steelmaking. The calcined material is also used for the production of refractory products that can withstand very high temperatures.
Oil refineries begin the production of petroleum coke by extracting crude oil from deep underground wells. The raw material goes through a series steps and processes to separate out the different hydrocarbon compounds and produce products that can be sold, such as gasoline, diesel and kerosene. This is a very complex process, involving many stages, equipments, and chemical reactions. During the refining stage, raw hydrocarbons will be heated to high temperature and pressed with high pressure. Coke is formed, which is a solid black substance.
There are several grades of petroleum coke available depending on the desired end use. Fuel grade makes up between 76 to 80% of supply. Fuel grade petroleum coke is a heavy byproduct of the oil refining process and contains a high level of moisture and volatile matter. It has a value of calorific energy of approximately 7800 BTU/lb. It's used to heat industrial facilities and produce steam.
The calcined-anode grade is a type of petroleum coal that is used for the production of aluminum. This coke, which is made by pyrolysis from heavy residue feedstocks in a liquidised bed reactor, is produced using heavier residues. It is higher in porosity, and bulk density is lower than fuel-grade petroleum coke. But it also has low sulfur content.
The demand for petroleum coke is expected to remain high as the world moves towards a more sustainable future. This is due to the many uses of the product. This industry will innovate and adapt in order to meet the demand for petroleum coke while minimising its environmental impact. For example, a recent breakthrough has enabled the production of ultra-low sulfur calcined anode grade, meeting emission standards and aluminium specifications. This innovation will increase petroleum coke's versatility and create new opportunities for industry.
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