Progress in the deactivation of metals contaminated FCC catalysts by a novel catalyst metallation method

► A new method of FCC catalyst metallation with vanadium and nickel was developed. ► The metals are deposited on the outer surface area of the FCC catalyst particles. ► Under hydrothermal conditions nickel remains primarily on the surface of the particles. ► Under hydrothermal conditions vanadium migrates into the bulk of the particles. ► A more realistic catalyst evaluation was achieved with the new metallation method.