ANALYSIS OF VANADIUM CONTENT IN OIL FROM THE KARAZHANBAS FIELD AND ASSESSMENT OF ITS IMPACT ON OIL REFINING TECHNOLOGICAL PROCESSES

Abstract

This article examines the vanadium content in the oil of the Karazhanbas field, located in the western part of Kazakhstan. The oil is characterized by high viscosity, low sulfur content, and significant concentrations of vanadium, mainly in the form of porphyrins. Geochemical analysis revealed an increase in vanadium concentration with depth in the productive reservoirs, particularly in horizons Y-VI and Y-VII. Modern methods of vanadium determination are reviewed, with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) identified as the most accurate. The impact of vanadium on oil refining processes is analyzed, especially its negative effect on cracking and hydrotreating catalysts due to deactivation. Economic and environmental consequences associated with high vanadium content are also assessed. The study highlights the need to implement efficient demetallization techniques and deep oil refining strategies to enhance processing efficiency, extend catalyst life, and reduce environmental risks, thus improving the overall profitability and sustainability of oil production and refining operations.