In petroleum refining, catalysts are used to efficiently convert crude oil into valuable products such as fuels and petrochemicals. These catalysts are employed in a range of processes, including catalytic cracking, hydrotreating, and reforming to meet stringent fuel quality standards. This review explores recent advancements in refining catalysts, focusing on novel materials, enhanced synthesis methods, and their industrial applications. The development of nano-, hierarchically structured, and supported metal catalysts has led to significant improvements in catalyst selectivity, yield, and longevity. These innovations are particularly important for processes such as hydrocracking, fluid catalytic cracking, and catalytic reforming, where catalysts improve conversion rates, product quality, and environmental sustainability. Advances in synthesis techniques such as sol-gel processes, microwave-assisted synthesis, and atomic layer deposition have further optimized catalyst performance. Environmental considerations have also driven the development of catalysts that reduce harmful emissions, particularly sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides while promoting green catalysis through the use of bio-based materials and recyclable catalysts. Despite these advancements, challenges remain, particularly in scaling novel materials for industrial use and integrating them with existing technologies. Future research should focus on the exploration of new catalytic materials, such as metal-organic frameworks and multi-functional catalysts, which promise to further revolutionize the refining industry. This review thus demonstrates the transformative potential of advanced catalysts in enhancing the efficiency and environmental sustainability of petroleum refining.
