Abstract: Dewaxing, preferably catalytic dewaxing over zeolite beta or ZSM-5, improves the crackability of a heavy, waxy feed to a catalytic cracking unit. When the catalytic dewaxing occurs at temperatures above about 360.degree. C., using ZSM-5 dewaxing catalyst, high octane gasoline is obtained as a by product of catalytic dewaxing.

Abstract: Heavy hydrocarbon oils of high paraffin content are catalytically cracked using zeolite beta. The paraffin content of the oil is at least 20 weight percent or higher. The gasoline cracking products have a high octane rating and the higher boiling products a decreased pour point resulting from the dewaxing activity of the zeolite beta. The use of cracking temperatures above 500.degree. C., preferably above 550.degree. C., also improves iso-butene production.

Abstract: A method for improving the cetane number of an aromatic hydrocarbon oil such as FCC light cycle oil and thereby increase its value as a blending stock for diesel fuel or heating oil. In one embodiment, the FCC light cycle oil is alkylated in the presence of a solid acidic catalyst and with a linear mono-olefin having a chain length of at least five carbon atoms. In another embodiment, the light cycle oil is alkylated with an olefin having three to nine carbon atoms or a mixture thereof and with ZSM-20 as catalyst to decrease the frequency of catalyst regeneration.

Abstract: Heavy oils are simultaneously subjected to cracking and dewaxing in the absence of added hydrogen using a catalyst comprising Zeolite Beta and an X or Y or other faujasite zeolite. The process is able to effect a bulk conversion of the oil, while, at the same time, yielding a higher octane gasoline, increased yields of C.sub.3 and C.sub.4 olefins, and a low pour point distillate product.

Abstract: A combined gasification/devolatilization process for coal in coal residues is disclosed wherein hydrogen rich volatiles are recovered prior to gasification of the coal. The recovery of hydrogen volatiles is dependent upon the rapid heating of coal obtained by admixture with hot char previously gasified in a riser with steam and a catalyst if necessary. The hot char is provided by combustion of devolatilized coal in a fluid bed regenerator. Alternative systems are provided for purifying the devolatilized coal prior to its charring.