HYDROGENATIONS IN A TETRALIN MEDIUM: I. DESTRUCTIVE HYDROGENATION OF BITUMEN AND PITCH

Abstract

The importance of a suspension medium in processes of destructive hydrogenation is discussed, with particular reference to the efficiency of the medium as a hydrogen carrier. The value of tetralin as a medium, in that it is a good solvent, is stable to heat, and acts as a hydrogen carrier, has been determined in the hydrogenation of bitumen and stable pitch. Tetralin does not cause an increase in yield of oil but does improve the quality somewhat. It increases the rate of hydrogenation of bitumen but does not affect that of stable pitch.