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Used lubricating oil recycling using hydrocarbon solvents
Ahmad Hamad1, Essam Al-Zubaidy, Muhammad E Fayed
1Department of Chemical Engineering, American University of Sharjah, P.O. Box 26666, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. ahmad_hamad@qu.edu.qa
Journal of Environmental Management
|January 4, 2005
Summary
This study introduces a new solvent extraction method for recycling used lubricating oil using liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) condensate and stabilized condensate. The process effectively removes contaminants, yielding high-quality recycled base oil.
Area of Science:
- Petroleum Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Used lubricating oil poses environmental challenges and represents a valuable resource if effectively reprocessed.
- Existing re-refining technologies often face limitations in efficiency, cost, or environmental impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a novel solvent extraction process for treating used lubricating oil.
- To assess the efficacy of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) condensate and stabilized condensate as solvents.
- To determine the quality and yield of recycled base oil.
Main Methods:
- Solvent extraction using liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) condensate and stabilized condensate.
- Application of a demulsifier to enhance the separation process.
- Detailed experimental analysis of treated oil properties and overall yield.
Main Results:
- Stabilized condensate extraction demonstrated competitiveness with existing technologies.
- Reduced asphaltene content to 0.106%, ash to 0.108%, and carbon residue to 0.315%.
- Achieved a high oil yield of 79% with minimal contaminant metals.
Conclusions:
- The solvent extraction process using stabilized condensate is a viable method for recycling used lubricating oil into base oil.
- The treated oil meets quality standards for reuse, contributing to resource circularity.
- High solvent recovery temperature is a noted disadvantage requiring further optimization.