WO2016162887A1

WO2016162887A1 - Aromatic free solvent and process of preparing the same from petroleum stream

Info

Publication number: WO2016162887A1
Application number: PCT/IN2016/050105
Authority: WO
Inventors: Shalini Gupta; Rajeev Kumar; Sudha Tyagi; Ravi Kumar Voolapalli
Original assignee: Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited
Priority date: 2015-04-09
Filing date: 2016-04-08
Publication date: 2016-10-13
Also published as: WO2016162887A4

Abstract

Aromatic Free Solvent and Process of preparing the same from Petroleum stream The present disclosure relates to a process of preparing an aromatic-lean fraction from an aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed. The disclosure also relates to an aromatic-10 lean fraction with an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt% and aromatic- rich fraction obtained through the process described herein.

Description

Aromatic Free Solvent and Process of preparing the same from Petroleum stream

TECHNICAL FIELD

[001] The present disclosure relates to a process for preparation of an aromatic- lean fraction with an aromatic content in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt% from an aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed. The present disclosure further relates to an aromatic-lean hydrocarbon having aromatic content in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt% obtained through said process.

BACKGROUND

[002] Aromatic hydrocarbons or aromatics are one of the primary sources of particulate matter (PM) which are extremely small particles that can penetrate blood cells and travel to the body organs, with adverse effects. Therefore, the issue of dearomatization of fuels has attracted researchers worldwide.

[003] US 2004/0182750 disclose a process for the extraction of aromatics from the petroleum fractions, i.e., naphtha, kerosene and gas oil, using re-extraction route for recovery of solvent.

[004] WO 2008/106407 discloses a process for producing a purified aliphatic product from an aromatic-containing feedstock.

[005] US 2010/0243533 discloses a process for extraction of aromatic material from hydrocarbon oil by using a solvent mixture comprising N-methyl-2- Pyrrolidone (NMP), at least one co-solvent and optionally water, to obtain a raffinate.

[006] DE-A-3207404 discloses a process of removing aromatic compounds from hydrocarbon mixtures boiling in the range from 30 to 300 degrees C comprising a liquid-liquid extraction with a selective solvent, a regeneration of the solvent by re- extraction with a non-aromatic hydrocarbon, and a separation of the aromatic compounds from the non-aromatic re-extracting agent, characterized in that water is added to the selective solvent after the extraction and before the re-extraction. [007] While the concepts for removal of aromatics have been shown in the state of the art methods, there still exists a need to develop an economical and effective process for removal of aromatics from hydrocarbon feed.

SUMMARY

[008] In an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction, wherein the process includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in the weight ratio of 1: 1 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is selected from N-methyl-2- pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof; (b) contacting the raffinate with water to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; and (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[009] In an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided an aromatic-lean hydrocarbon obtained through a process including the steps: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1: 1 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is selected from N-methyl-2- pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof; (b) contacting the raffinate with water to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1 to- 1.0 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; and (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0010] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present subject matter will be better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS

[0011] The following drawings form part of the present specification and are included to further illustrate aspects of the present disclosure. The disclosure may be better understood by reference to the drawings in combination with the detailed description of the specific embodiments presented herein.

[0012] Figure 1 depicts the flow diagram, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Those skilled in the art will be aware that the present disclosure is subject to variations and modifications other than those specifically described. It is to be understood that the present disclosure includes all such variations and modifications. The disclosure also includes all such steps, features, compositions and compounds referred to or indicated in this specification, individually or collectively, and any and all combinations of any or more of such steps or features. Definitions:

[0014] For convenience, before further description of the present disclosure, certain terms employed in the specification, and examples are collected here. These definitions should be read in the light of the remainder of the disclosure and understood as by a person of skill in the art. The terms used herein have the meanings recognized and known to those of skill in the art, however, for convenience and completeness, particular terms and their meanings are set forth below.

[0015] The articles "a", "an" and "the" are used to refer to one or to more than one (i.e., to at least one) of the grammatical object of the article.

[0016] The terms "comprise" and "comprising" are used in the inclusive, open sense, meaning that additional elements may be included. It is not intended to be construed as "consists of only".

[0017] Throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" and "comprising", will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated element or step or group of element or steps but not the exclusion of any other element or step or group of element or steps.

[0018] The term "including" is used to mean "including but not limited to". "Including" and "including but not limited to" are used interchangeably.

[0019] The term "hydrocarbon feed" refers to feed from petroleum fractions, i.e., naphtha, kerosene, gas oil, and various distillate blends. In one implementation aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed is kerosene.

[0020] The term "aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed" refers to hydrocarbon feed having more than 10% aromatic content. Aromatic -rich hydrocarbon feed can also refer to hydrocarbon feed having an aromatic content in the range of 15 to 40 wt%. In one implementation, aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed refers to a hydrocarbon feed having an aromatic content in the range of 15 to 30 wt%. In another implementation, aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed refers to a hydrocarbon feed having an aromatic content in the range of 20 to 30 wt%. Aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed includes substituted or unsubstituted C3-C20 aromatic radical. In one implementation, aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed includes substituted or unsubstituted C5-C20 aromatic radical. The aromatic radicals can have heteroatom(s).

[0021] The term "aromatic-lean fraction" refers to a fraction or hydrocarbon having less than lwt% aromatic content and is also referred to as aromatic free solvent in the disclosure. In one implementation, the aromatic-lean fraction has aromatic content in the range of 0.1 to 1.0 wt %. In another implementation, the aromatic-lean fraction has aromatic content in the range of 0.1 to 0.5 wt %. In another implementation, the aromatic-lean fraction has aromatic content in the range of 0.3 to 1.0 wt %. In another implementation, the aromatic-lean fraction has aromatic content in the range of 0.3 to 0.5 wt %. In yet another implementation, the aromatic-lean fraction can be low flash solvent having flash point in the range of 40-50.

[0022] The term "raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed" refers to a liquid stream which remains after a major proportion of aromatics is removed from the aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed through contact with a first solvent. The aromatic content of the raffinate is in the range of 0.01 to 1.0 wt%. In another implementation the aromatic content of the raffinate is in the range of 0.1 to 1.0 wt%. In yet another implementation the aromatic content of the raffinate is in the range of 0.1 to 0.5 wt%. In one implementation the aromatic content of the raffinate is in the range of 0.15 to 0.5 wt%.

[0023] The term "extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed" refers to a liquid stream which remains after a major proportion of aromatics from the aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed are added through contact with a first solvent. The aromatic content of the extract is in the range of 5 to 80 wt%. In one implementation, the aromatic content of the extract is in the range of 5 to 50 wt%.

[0024] The term "aromatic-rich fraction" refers to a fraction or hydrocarbon having more than 20 wt% aromatic content in the fraction or a fraction having higher content of aromatics as compared to the aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed. In one implementation the wt% of aromatic-rich hydrocarbon in the aromatic-rich fraction is in the range of 20 to 60 wt %. In one implementation the wt% of aromatic -rich hydrocarbon in the aromatic -rich fraction is in the range of 20 to 40 wt %. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the disclosure, the preferred methods, and materials are now described. All publications mentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference.

[0025] Ratios, concentrations, amounts, and other numerical data may be presented herein in a range format. It is to be understood that such range format is used merely for convenience and brevity and should be interpreted flexibly to include not only the numerical values explicitly recited as the limits of the range, but also to include all the individual numerical values or sub-ranges encompassed within that range as if each numerical value and sub-range is explicitly recited. For example, a temperature range of about 30°C to about 50°C should be interpreted to include not only the explicitly recited limits of about 30°C to about 50°C, but also to include sub-ranges, such as 32°C to 40°C, 42°C to 55°C, and so forth, as well as individual amounts, including fractional amounts, within the specified ranges, such as 42°C, 31.6°C, and 48.3°C, for example.

[0026] The present disclosure is not to be limited in scope by the specific embodiments described herein, which are intended for the purposes of exemplification only. Functionally-equivalent products, compositions, and methods are clearly within the scope of the disclosure, as described herein.

[0027] The disclosure relates to a process for preparation of both aromatic -rich and aromatic-lean fraction from aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed. Low aromatic solvents have many applications as a specialty solvent in different industries, such as paint industry as rust preventive solvent, car polishes and waxes, dry cleaning industry, leather industry, ink industry. The present disclosure relates to end to end process for production of aromatic-lean solvents which contains less than <0.5 wt% aromatics. The disclosure also relates to recovery of >98wt% aromatics from aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed. The aromatic-rich fraction obtained from the process disclosed herein can be further fractionated and used as calibration standards or blended into petroleum fractions for improving lubricity or to produce high aromatic wash oils for petroleum industry.

[0028] The integrated system and process is capable of efficiently and cost- effectively reducing the aromatic content of hydrocarbon feed and at the same time obtaining aromatic-rich fraction. The process can be carried out under relatively mild operating conditions.

[0029] The present disclosure relates to a process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction, wherein the process includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1: 1 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is selected from N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof; (b) contacting the raffinate with water to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; and (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0030] The present disclosure relates to a process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction, wherein the process includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1: 1 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is a combination of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and water in a weight ratio range of 99: 1 to 95:5; (b) contacting the raffinate with water to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-0.5 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; and (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0031] The present disclosure relates to a process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction and an aromatic-rich fraction, wherein the process includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1: 1 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is selected from N-methyl-2- pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof; (b) contacting the raffinate with water to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; and (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0032] Referring to Figure 1, a process flow diagram is schematically illustrated. Extractor-E includes first solvent inlet 1, an aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed inlet 2, raffinate outlet 3, and an extract outlet 4. The first solvent is selected from N- methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof. The first solvent can include NMP, sulfolane, tri-ethylene glycol, ethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, furfural, water and combinations thereof. In one implementation, the first solvent is a combination of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and water in a weight ratio range of 99: 1 to 95:5. The aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed is introduced via inlet 2 and meet the first solvent, introduced through inlet 1, counter-currently to be separated into a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent discharged via outlet 3 and an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent discharged from outlet 4. The raffinate from inlet 3 is passed to the decanter Dl along with water via inlet 6 to be separated into an aromatic-lean fraction having an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt% discharged via outlet 7 and a second extract containing a portion of the first solvent discharged from outlet 8. In one implementation, the raffinate from inlet 3 is passed to the decanter Dl along with water via inlet 6 to be separated into an aromatic-lean fraction having an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-0.5 wt% discharged via outlet 7 and a second extract containing a portion of the first solvent discharged from outlet 8.

[0033] The extract from inlet 4 is passed to the decanter D2 along with water via inlet 5 to be separated into an aromatic -rich fraction having an aromatic content is in the range of 20-60 wt% discharged via outlet 9 and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent discharged from outlet 10. In one implementation, the extract from inlet 4 is passed to the decanter D2 along with water via inlet 5 to be separated into an aromatic-rich fraction having an aromatic content is in the range of 20-40 wt% discharged via outlet 9 and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent discharged from outlet 10. The second extract and the third extract from inlet 8 and 10 respectively are fed into the distillation unit D3 to obtain water from outlet 11 with a purity of at least 96% and NMP from outlet 12 with a purity of at least 99 %.

[0034] The initial feedstock for use in above-described apparatus and process can be a crude or partially refined oil product obtained from various sources. In one implementation, hydrocarbon feed includes feed from petroleum fractions, i.e., naphtha, kerosene, gas oil, and various distillate blends. In another implementation, aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed can refinery streams having a boiling point in the range of 110°C to 290°C. In yet another implementation, aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed can be kerosene. In yet another implementation, aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed can be refinery streams having substituted or unsubstituted C5 to C20 alkyl chains.

[0035] In another implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1: 1 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is selected from N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof; (b) contacting the raffinate with water in a wt% range of 5 to 15 with respect to the raffinate to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0036] In another implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1: 1 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is selected from N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof; (b) contacting the raffinate with water in a wt% range of 5 to 15 with respect to the raffinate to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-0.5 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0037] In yet another implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is selected from N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof; (b) contacting the raffinate with water to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water in a wt% range of 10 to 30 with respect to the extract to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0038] In one implementation, the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-0.5 wt%

[0039] In one implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is selected from N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof; (b) contacting the raffinate with water in a wt% range of 5 to 15 with respect to the raffinate to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water in a wt% range of 10 to 30 with respect to the extract to obtain an aromatic -rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0040] In one implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is selected from N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof; (b) contacting the raffinate with water in a wt% range of 5 to 15 with respect to the raffinate to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-0.5 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water in a wt% range of 10 to 30 with respect to the extract to obtain an aromatic -rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0041] In one implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is a combination of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and water; (b) contacting the raffinate with water to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water to obtain an aromatic -rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain N- methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and water.

[0042] In another implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is a combination of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and water; (b) contacting the raffinate with water in a wt% range of 5 to 15 with respect to the raffinate to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water in a wt% range of 10 to 30 with respect to the extract to obtain an aromatic -rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and water.

[0043] In another implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is a combination of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and water, wherein water is present in the range of 1 to 5 wt% with respect to NMP; (b) contacting the raffinate with water to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain N-methyl- 2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and water.

[0044] In another implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is a combination of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and water, wherein water is present in the range of 1-5 wt% with respect to NMP; (b) contacting the raffinate with water to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain N-methyl- 2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and water.

[0045] In another implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is a combination of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and water, wherein water is present in the range of 1-5 wt% with respect to NMP; (b) contacting the raffinate with water in a wt% range of 5 to 15 with respect to the raffinate to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water in a wt% range of 10 to 30 with respect to the extract to obtain an aromatic -rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and water.

[0046] In one implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 at a temperature in the range of 30 to 60°C to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non- aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is selected from N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof; (b) contacting the raffinate with water to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0047] In one implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is selected from N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof; (b) contacting the raffinate with water at a temperature in the range of 15 to 40°C to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water to obtain an aromatic- rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0048] In one implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is selected from N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof; (b) contacting the raffinate with water to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water at a temperature in the range of 15 to 40°C to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0049] In one implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 at a temperature in the range of 30 to 60°C to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is selected from N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof; (b) contacting the raffinate with water at a temperature in the range of 15 to 40°C to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water at a temperature in the range of 15 to 40°C to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0050] In one implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 at a temperature in the range of 30 to 50°C to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the 0.1-1.0 wt%; hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is a combination of N-methyl-2- pyrrolidone (NMP), and water in a weight ratio range of 99: 1 to 95:5; (b) contacting the raffinate with water in a wt% range of 5 to 15 with respect to the raffinate at a temperature in the range of 15 to 40°C to obtain an aromatic -lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of (c) contacting the extract with water in a wt% range of 10 to 30 with respect to the extract at a temperature in the range of 15 to 40°C to obtain an aromatic -rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0051] In one implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed having an aromatic content in the range of 10 to 30 wt% with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 at a temperature in the range of 30 to 60°C to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is a combination of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and water in a weight ratio range of 99:1 to 95:5; (b) contacting the raffinate with water in a wt% range of 5 to 15 with respect to the raffinate at a temperature in the range of 15 to 40°C to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water in a wt% range of 10 to 30 with respect to the extract at a temperature in the range of 15 to 40°C to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0052] In one implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed having an aromatic content in the range of 10 to 30 wt% with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 at a temperature in the range of 30 to 60°C to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is a combination of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and water in a weight ratio range of 99:1 to 95:5; (b) contacting the raffinate with water in a wt% range of 5 to 15 with respect to the raffinate at a temperature in the range of 15 to 40°C to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-0.5 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water in a wt% range of 10 to 30 with respect to the extract at a temperature in the range of 15 to 40°C to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0053] In one implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is selected from N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof; (b) contacting the raffinate with water to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-0.5 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0054] In one implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is selected from N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof; (b) contacting the raffinate with water to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-0.5 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) contacting the second extract and the third extract and separating to obtain the first solvent.

[0055] In one implementation, the aromatic-lean fraction obtained by the process can have N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone is in the range of 0.01-2 wt%. In one implementation, the aromatic-lean fraction obtained by the process can have N- methyl-2-pyrrolidone is in the range of 0.01-0.05 wt%. In another implementation, the aromatic-lean fraction obtained by the process can have N-methyl-2- pyrrolidone is in the range of 0.01-1 wt%. In one implementation, the aromatic- lean fraction obtained by the process can have water is in the range of 0.001-1 wt%. In another implementation, the aromatic-lean fraction obtained by the process can have water is in the range of 0.001-0.5 wt%. In another implementation, the aromatic-lean fraction obtained by the process can have water is in the range of 0.001-0.05 wt%.In yet another implementation, the aromatic-lean fraction obtained by the process can have water is in the range of 10 to 20 ppm.

[0056] In one implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is selected from N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof; (b) contacting the raffinate with water to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%, N-methyl-2- pyrrolidone is in the range of 0.01-1 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0057] In one implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is selected from N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof; (b) contacting the raffinate with water to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%, N-methyl-2- pyrrolidone is in the range of 0.01-0.05 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0058] In one implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is selected from N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof; (b) contacting the raffinate with water to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%, water in the range of 0.001-1 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; and (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0059] In one implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is selected from N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof; (b) contacting the raffinate with water to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%, water in the range of 0.001-0.05 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; and (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0060] In one implementation, the second extract and the third extract can be combined together and distilled to obtain the first solvent.

[0061] In one implementation, the second extract and the third extract can be combined together and distilled to obtain NMP and water.

[0062] In one implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed having an aromatic content in the range of 10 to 30 wt% with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 at a temperature in the range of 30 to 60°C to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is a combination of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and water in a weight ratio range of 99:1 to 95:5; (b) contacting the raffinate with water in a wt% range of 5 to 15 with respect to the raffinate at a temperature in the range of 15 to 40°C to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-0.5wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water in a wt% range of 10 to 30 with respect to the extract at a temperature in the range of 15 to 40°C to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0063] In one implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic -rich kerosene having an aromatic content in the range of 10 to 30 wt% with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 at a temperature in the range of 30 to 60°C to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is a combination of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and water in a weight ratio range of 99:1 to 95:5; (b) contacting the raffinate with water in a wt% range of 5 to 15 with respect to the raffinate at a temperature in the range of 15 to 40° C to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water in a wt% range of 10 to 30 with respect to the extract at a temperature in the range of 15 to 40°C to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0064] In one implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic -rich kerosene having an aromatic content in the range of 10 to 30 wt% with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1:3 to l:8at a temperature in the range of 30 to 60°C to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is a combination of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and water in a weight ratio range of 99:1 to 95:5; (b) contacting the raffinate with water in a wt% range of 5 to 15 with respect to the raffinate at a temperature in the range of 15 to 40°C to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-0.5 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water in a wt% range of 10 to 30 with respect to the extract at a temperature in the range of 15 to 40°C to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0065] In one implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic -rich kerosene having an aromatic content in the wt % range of 20 to 30 wt% with a first solvent in the ratio of 1:3 to 1:8 wt% at a temperature in the range of 40 to 60°C to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is a combination of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and water in a weight ratio range of 99:1 to 95:5; (b) contacting the raffinate with water in a wt% range of 5 to 15 with respect to the raffinate at a temperature in the range of 20 to 30°C to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone is in the range of 0.01-1 wt%, and water is in the range of 0.001-1 wt% (c) contacting the extract with water in a wt% range of 10 to 30 with respect to the extract at a temperature in the range of 20 to 30°C to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0066] In one implementation, the process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction includes: (a) contacting aromatic -rich kerosene having an aromatic content in the wt % range of 20 to 30 wt% with a first solvent in the ratio of 1:3 to 1:5 wt% at a temperature in the range of 40 to 60°C to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non- aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is a combination of N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and water in a weight ratio range of 99:1 to 95:5; (b) contacting the raffinate with water in a wt% range of 5 to 15 with respect to the raffinate at a temperature in the range of 20 to 30°C to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-0.5 wt%, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone is in the range of 0.01-0.05 wt%, and water is in the range of 0.001-0.05 wt% (c) contacting the extract with water in a wt% range of 10 to 30 with respect to the extract at a temperature in the range of 20 to 30°C to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0067] The present disclosure relates to aromatic-lean hydrocarbon comprising of carbon chains between 9 to 15 carbon atoms with aromatic content in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%.

[0068] The present disclosure relates to aromatic-lean hydrocarbon comprising of carbon chains between 9 to 15 carbon atoms with aromatic content in the range of 0.1-0.5 wt%.

[0069] In one implementation, there is provided an aromatic-lean hydrocarbon obtained through a process including the steps: (a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1: 1 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is selected from N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof; (b) contacting the raffinate with water to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1 to- 1.0 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water to obtain an aromatic -rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; and (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

[0070] In one implementation, the aromatic-lean hydrocarbon includes carbon chains between 9 to 15 carbon atoms with a specific gravity at 15°C in the range of 0.77-0.80, and aromatic content in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%.

[0071] In one implementation, the aromatic-lean hydrocarbon includes carbon chains between 9 to 15 carbon atoms with a specific gravity at 15°C in the range of 0.77-0.80, and aromatic content in the range of 0.1-0.5 wt%.

[0072] In one implementation, the aromatic-lean hydrocarbon includes carbon chains between 9 to 15 carbon atoms with a flash point in the range of 40-50 °C, and aromatic content in the range of 0.1 - 1.0 wt% .

[0073] In one implementation, the aromatic-lean hydrocarbon includes carbon chains between 9 to 15 carbon atoms with a flash point in the range of 40-50 °C, and aromatic content in the range of 0.1-0.5 wt%.

[0074] In one implementation, the aromatic-lean hydrocarbon includes carbon chains between 9 to 15 carbon atoms with a flash point in the range of 40-50 °C, a specific gravity at 15°C in the range of 0.77-0.80, and aromatic content in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%.

[0075] In one implementation, the aromatic-lean hydrocarbon includes carbon chains between 9 to 15 carbon atoms with a flash point in the range of 40-50 °C, a specific gravity at 15°C in the range of 0.77-0.80, and aromatic content in the range of 0.1-0.5 wt%.

[0076] In one implementation, the aromatic-lean hydrocarbon includes carbon chains between 9 to 15 carbon atoms with kinematic viscosity at 40°C in the range of 1.00-1.50 cSt, and aromatic content in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%.

[0077] In one implementation, the aromatic-lean hydrocarbon includes carbon chains between 9 to 15 carbon atoms with kinematic viscosity at 40°C in the range of 1.00-1.50 cSt, a flash point in the range of 40-50 °C, a specific gravity at 15°C in the range of 0.77-0.80, and aromatic content in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%.

[0078] In one implementation, the aromatic-lean kerosene includes carbon chains between 9 to 15 carbon, and aromatic content in the range of 0.1-0.5 wt%. [0079] In one implementation, the aromatic-lean kerosene includes carbon chains between 9 to 15 carbon atoms with kinematic viscosity at 40°C in the range of 1.00-1.50 cSt, a flash point in the range of 40-50 °C, a specific gravity at 15°C in the range of 0.77-0.80, and aromatic content in the range of 0.1-0.5 wt%.

[0080] In one implementation, the aromatic-lean kerosene includes carbon chains between 9 to 15 carbon atoms with kinematic viscosity at 40°C in the range of 1.00-1.50 cSt, a flash point in the range of 40-50 °C, a specific gravity at 15°C in the range of 0.77-0.80, and aromatic content in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%.

[0081] The product disclosed in the present application can be used (i) in the paint and coating industry for improving the working condition, as it eliminates strong odours of the petroleum products, (ii) for industrial cleaning, (iii) in place of chlorinated solvents and mineral spirits, (iv) to present rust, (v) as a thinner, (vi) as a wood preservatives, and (vii) to reduce tool wear.

EXAMPLES

[0082] The disclosure will now be illustrated with working examples, which is intended to illustrate the working of disclosure and not intended to take restrictively to imply any limitations on the scope of the present disclosure. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice of the disclosed methods and compositions, the exemplary methods, devices and materials are described herein. It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to particular methods, and experimental conditions described, as such methods and conditions may vary. EXAMPLE 1:

[0083] For the extraction step, kerosene containing 22 wt% aromatic was mixed with neat NMP in the ratio of 1: 1 for 30 minutes at different temperatures (30, 35

,40 ,45, 50 & 55 C) to identify best extraction condition at lab scale. The experiment carried out at 55°C provided better result and is described below in detail. After settling for 30 minutes at steady state, the two liquid phases under equilibrium were formed. Each phase was separated, made solvent-free and analysed. The raffinate phase was washed with 15 wt% water to obtain aromatic lean fraction and second extract. The aromatic content of the raffinate phase and aromatic lean fraction was 17 wt% with a yield of 75.58 wt%. The NMP and water content of the aromatic lean fraction was 400 ppm and 100 ppm, respectively. The result exhibits that neat NMP does not effectively remove aromatic compounds from aromatic rich fractions. The extract phase (aromatic rich phase) was made solvent free by adding 25wt% water with continuous stirring for 20 minutes at 30°C. The aromatic rich fraction and the third extract were separated out after allowing the mixture for settling. The aromatic content of the aromatic rich fraction was found to be 37.84 wt%. It is observed that aromatic content decreased with increase of temperature (from room temperature to 55° C).

Example 2:

[0084] For the extraction step, kerosene containing 22 wt% aromatic was mixed with NMP admixed with 1% water at 45° C in the ratio of 8: 1 (ratio of NMP- water to kerosene) for 30 minutes into fabricated glass mixer settler unit cross currently at lab scale. After settling for 30 minutes at steady state two liquid phases under equilibrium were formed. Each phase was separated, made solvent-free and analyzed. The raffinate phase was washed with 25 wt% water to remove the trace of the solvent /haziness if any and other impurities and contained 0.45 wt% aromatic content with 25 wt% yield. The aromatic content of the aromatic lean phase was 0.45 wt%. The NMP and water content in the aromatic lean fraction was found to be 400 ppm and 100 ppm respectively. The extract phase (aromatic rich phase) made solvent free by adding 25 wt% water at 30°C and mixing it for 20 minutes and allowing it for settling. The aromatic content of the extract phase is 29.17 wt%. After that aromatic and hydrocarbons were separated out from NMP and water.

EXAMPLE 3: [0085] For the extraction step, kerosene containing 22 wt% aromatic was mixed with NMP admixed with 3% water at 45° C in the ratio of 8: 1 (ratio of NMP- water to kerosene) for 30 minutes into fabricated glass mixer settler unit cross currently at lab scale. After settling for 30 minutes at steady state, two liquid phases under equilibrium were formed. Each phase was separated, made solvent- free and analyzed. The raffinate phase contained 0.49 wt% aromatic content with 30 wt% yields. This phase was washed with 15 wt% water to remove the impurities or traces of solvent. The aromatic lean fraction contained 0.49 wt% of aromatics, 400 ppm of NMP, and 100 ppm of water. The extract phase containing 31.22 wt% of aromatics was made solvent free by adding 25 wt% water at 30°C and mixing it for 20 minutes and keeping it for settling. After that aromatic and hydrocarbons parts are separated out from NMP and water. The product specification of the aromatic-lean fraction obtained from the process carried out in Example 3 is disclosed in the Table 1.

Table 1:

The aromatic lean product was characterized for the physico chemical properties and found at par with the commercially product. Aromatic lean solvent is an alternative to traditional solvent due to same or better evaporation rate. This can be used in paints and coating industry, for improving working conditions, eliminating strong odors, and to deliver consistent quality and performance, industrial cleaning, metal working fluid for controlling friction, reducing tool wear, and providing low toxicity and low odor levels, in rust prevention by protective coating to keep oxygen and moisture away from metal surfaces, as wood preservatives as a thinner. The aromatic lean fraction is environmentally safe as contains low aromatic content (typically less than <0.5 wt %) to minimize risks from exposure and contains less odour and less toxic.

EXAMPLE 4:

For the extraction step, kerosene containing 22 wt% aromatic was mixed with NMP admixed with 5% water at 45° C in the ratio of 8: 1 (ratio of NMP- water to kerosene) for 30 minutes into fabricated glass mixer settler unit cross currently at lab scale. After settling for 30 minutes at steady state two liquid phases under equilibrium were formed. Each phase was separated, made solvent-free and analyzed. The raffinate phase (aromatic lean) was washed with 15 wt% water to remove trace of the solvent /haziness and other impurities and contained 0.5 wt% aromatic content with 55 wt% yield. The aromatic lean fraction contained 0.50 wt% of aromatics, 400 ppm of NMP, and 100 ppm of water. The extract phase containing 43.45 wt% of aromatics was made solvent free by adding 25%wt% water at 30°C and mixing it for 20 minutes and keeping it for settling. After that aromatic and hydrocarbons parts are separated out from NMP and water

EXAMPLE 5:

[0086] For pilot experimental runs, aromatic -rich hydrocarbon feed kerosene containing 22 wt% aromatics was introduced into extractor column counter- currently with first solvent N-Methyl pyrolidinone (NMP) admixed with 5 wt% water at 55°C. The solvent to feed (S/F) ratio was varied from 3.5: 1 at atmospheric pressure conditions. The feed pump and solvent pumps were operated with flow rates 20-30 ml/min and 50-150 ml/min respectively. At steady state, inter-phase formed and constantly maintained as two liquid phases were under equilibrium at continuous operation. Raffinate and extract samples were collected and measured. Further, flow rates of raffinate and extract were analyzed for material balance.

[0087] The raffinate phase was further contacted with water to produce aromatic - lean fraction which has aromatic content less than 0.5 wt% and second extract containing a portion of the first solvent in the range of 55 wt%. The optimum water composition was 10 wt% and at ambient condition. The final aromatic-lean fraction yield was in the range of 50 wt%.

[0088] The extract phase (bottom) was contacted with water to obtain aromatic- rich fraction which has aromatic content 40 wt% and third extract containing a portion of the first solvent in the range of 60-90 wt%. The optimum water composition was 25 wt% and at ambient conditions. The aromatic -rich fraction yield was in the range of 90 wt%.

[0089] The second extract and the third extract phases were subjected to distillation to obtain the first solvent. The first solvent (NMP) recovered was more than 99 wt% with high purity (>99%). Water recovered was also more than 99wt% with high purity (>96%). Solvents were recycled for reuse.

EXAMPLE 6:

[0090] For the extraction step the kerosene containing 22 wt% aromatic was mixed with NMP admixed with 7% water at 45° C in the ratio of 8: 1 (ratio of NMP- water to kerosene) at into fabricated glass mixer settler unit cross currently lab scale. After settling for 30 minutes at steady state Two liquid phases under equilibrium were formed. Each phase was separated, made solvent-free and analyzed. The raffinate phase contained 3.26 wt% aromatic content. This phase is washed out with 15% water to remove the impurities or traces of solvent if any. The aromatic lean phase contained 3.26 wt% aromatics. The NMP and water content of aromatic lean phase was found to be 500 ppm and 200 ppm respectively. Extract phase made solvent free by adding 25-wt% water and mixing it for 20 minutes and keeping it for settling. The aromatic content of the aromatic rich fraction is 65 wt%. After that aromatic and hydrocarbons parts are separated out from NMP and water. Advantages of invention

[0091] The main advantages of the present disclosure are as follows:

1. The aromatic-lean fraction obtained by the process disclosed herein is environmentally safe as it contains low aromatic content. The product has many applications as a solvent in petrochemical industries such as paint industry, dry cleaning industry, leather industry, and ink industry. The product contains fewer odors and is less toxic.

2. The aromatic-rich fraction obtained by the process described above can be used in petroleum industry, or paint industry, i.e., in car polishes and waxes, as a rust preventive solvent.

3. The process for production of aromatic-rich and aromatic-lean fractions is environmental friendly. Further, energy inefficient distillation step is avoided in the recovery of said fractions which results in the reduction of operating cost.

[0092] Although the subject matter has been described in considerable detail with reference to certain preferred embodiments thereof, other embodiments are possible. As such, the spirit and scope of the disclosure should not be limited to the description of the preferred embodiment contained therein.

Claims

I/We claim:

1. A process for preparing an aromatic-lean fraction process comprising:

(a) contacting aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed with a first solvent in weight ratio of 1 : 1 to 1:8 to obtain an extract containing a major proportion of the aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent and a raffinate containing a major proportion of the non-aromatic content of the hydrocarbon feed and a portion of the first solvent, wherein the first solvent is selected from N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), water, and combinations thereof;

(b) contacting the raffinate with water to obtain an aromatic-lean fraction and an second extract containing a portion of the first solvent, wherein the aromatic -lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-1.0 wt%; (c) contacting the extract with water to obtain an aromatic-rich fraction and a third extract containing a portion of the first solvent; (d) separating the second extract and the third extract to obtain the first solvent.

2. The process as claimed in Claim 1 , wherein the aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed has more than 10% aromatic content.

3. The process as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the first solvent is a combination of N- methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP), and water in a weight ratio range of 99: 1 to 95:5.

4. The process as claimed in claim 1, wherein aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed to first solvent weight ratio is in the range of 1 :3 to 1:8.

5. The process as claimed in claim 1, wherein aromatic-rich hydrocarbon feed is contacted with the first solvent at a temperature in the range of 40 to 60 °C.

6. The process as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the raffinate is contacted with water in a wt% range of 5 to 15 with respect to the raffinate at a temperature in the range of 20 to 30°C

7. The process as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has an aromatic content is in the range of 0.1-0.05 wt%.

8. The process as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has N-methyl-2- pyrrolidone is in the range of 0.01-1 wt%.

9. The process as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the aromatic-lean fraction has water is in the range of 0.01-1 wt%.

10. An aromatic-lean hydrocarbon obtained by the process as claimed in claim 1.

11. The aromatic-lean hydrocarbon as claimed in Claim 11 with a specific gravity at 15°C in the range of 0.77-0.80.

12. The aromatic-lean hydrocarbon as claimed in Claim 11 with a flash point in the range of 40-50 °C.

13. The aromatic-lean hydrocarbon as claimed in Claim 11 with kinematic viscosity at 40°C in the range of 1.00-1.50 cSt.

14. The aromatic-lean hydrocarbon as claimed in Claim 11 with aromatic content in the range of 0.1-0.5 wt%.