Catalyst activity decay due to pore blockage during catalytic cracking of hydrocarbons

► We set an activity decay model based on catalyst structural properties. ► We develop catalytic runs with a model compound in a CREC Riser Simulator. ► We measure cumulative pore volume and pore size distribution. ► We correlated changes in catalyst structural properties with coke formed. ► We establish catalyst activity decay as a function of micropore volume changes.