Abstract: Embodiments of processes for upgrading a petroleum-based composition while decreasing plugging comprise mixing a supercritical water stream with a pressurized, heated petroleum-based composition in a mixing device to create a combined feed stream, and introducing to a supercritical upgrading reactor system are provided. The processes also comprise cooling the upgraded product in a cooling device, and decreasing the pressure of the cooled upgraded product in a pressure reducer. To reduce plugging, the processes also comprises injecting plug remover solution into one or more of the following injection locations: an injection port on a process line connecting the mixing device with the upgrading reactor system; an injection port on a process line connecting the upgrading reactor system with the cooling device; or an injection port on a process line connecting the cooling device with the pressure reducer.

Abstract: Embodiments of processes for upgrading a petroleum-based composition while decreasing plugging comprise mixing a supercritical water stream with a pressurized, heated petroleum-based composition in a mixing device to create a combined feed stream, and introducing to a supercritical upgrading reactor system are provided. The processes also comprise cooling the upgraded product in a cooling device, and decreasing the pressure of the cooled upgraded product in a pressure reducer. To reduce plugging, the processes also comprises injecting plug remover solution into one or more of the following injection locations: an injection port on a process line connecting the mixing device with the upgrading reactor system; an injection port on a process line connecting the upgrading reactor system with the cooling device; or an injection port on a process line connecting the cooling device with the pressure reducer.

Abstract: A process for upgrading an oil stream by mixing the oil stream with a water stream and subjecting it to conditions that are at or above the supercritical temperature and pressure of water. The process further includes cooling and a subsequent alkaline extraction step. The resulting thiols and hydrogen sulfide gas can be isolated from the product stream, resulting in an upgraded oil stream that is a higher value oil having low sulfur, low nitrogen, and low metallic impurities as compared to the oil stream.

Abstract: A process for upgrading an oil stream by mixing the oil stream with a water stream and subjecting it to conditions that are at or above the supercritical temperature and pressure of water. The process further includes cooling and a subsequent alkaline extraction step. The resulting thiols and hydrogen sulfide gas can be isolated from the product stream, resulting in an upgraded oil stream that is a higher value oil having low sulfur, low nitrogen, and low metallic impurities as compared to the oil stream.