Transforming Petrochemical Processes: Cutting-Edge Advances in Kaolin Catalyst Fabrication Al-Ameri, Osamah Basil Alzuhairi, Mohammed Bailón García, Esther Carrasco Marín, Francisco Amaro Gahete, Juan Kaolin Synthesis methodologies Modification strategies The depletion of conventional light petroleum reserves has intensified the search for alternative sources, notably, low-quality heavy oils and byproducts from heavy crude processing, to meet the global demand for fuels, energy, and petrochemicals. Heavy crude oil (HO) and extra heavy crude oil (EHO) represent nearly 70% of the world’s reserves but require extensive upgrading to satisfy refining and petrochemical specifications. Their high asphaltene content results in elevated viscosity and reduced API gravity, posing significant challenges in extraction, transportation, and refining. Advanced catalytic approaches are crucial for efficient asphaltene removal and the conversion of heavy feedstocks into valuable light fractions. Kaolin, an aluminosilicate mineral, has emerged as a key precursor for zeolite synthesis and a promising catalyst in upgrading processes. This article provides a comprehensive exploration of kaolin’s geological origins, chemical properties, and structural characteristics, as well as the various modification techniques designed to improve its catalytic performance. Special focus is given to its application in the transformation of heavy crudes, particularly in facilitating asphaltene breakdown and enhancing light distillate yields. Finally, future research avenues and potential developments in kaolin-based catalysis are discussed, emphasizing its vital role in addressing the technological challenges linked to the growing reliance on heavier crude resources. 2024-11-07T11:59:31Z 2024-11-07T11:59:31Z 2024-10-08 journal article Al-Ameri, O.B.; Alzuhairi, M.; Bailón-García, E.; Carrasco-Marín, F.; Amaro-Gahete, J. Transforming Petrochemical Processes: Cutting- Edge Advances in Kaolin Catalyst Fabrication. Appl. Sci. 2024, 14, 9080. https://doi.org/10.3390/app14199080 https://hdl.handle.net/10481/96739 10.3390/app14199080 eng info:eu-repo/grantAgreement/EC/NextGenerationEU/127803OB-I00 info:eu-repo/grantAgreement/EC/NextGenerationEU/144680 info:eu-repo/grantAgreement/EC/NextGenerationEU/048903-I http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ open access Atribución 4.0 Internacional MDPI