Abstract: A process for the hydrotreatment of a heavy hydrocarbon fraction containing sulfur and metal impurities comprises at least two steps: a first step using a catalyst comprising a low proportion of at least one metal of groups V, VI and VIII, said catalyst being in the form of a plurality of juxtaposed agglomerates each formed of a plurality of acicular plates, the plates of each agglomerate being generally oriented radially with respect to one another and with respect to the center of the agglomerate, the carrier of this catalyst being preferably inert; and a second step using a catalyst which could be of the same type but with a higher proportion of metals. This process is useful for the conversion of crude oils, straight run hydrocarbon residues, deasphalted oils, asphalts dissolved in aromatic distillates and coal hydrogenates.

Abstract: A catalyst for use in the hydrotreatment of hydrocarbons comprises a carrier and at least one catalytic metal selected from vanadium, molybdenum, tungsten, nickel, cobalt and/or iron; this catalyst is in the form of a plurality of juxtaposed agglomerates of acicular platelets, oriented radially to each other. It is prepared from agglomerates of activated alumina subjected to reaction with an acid and a compound providing an anion able to combine with aluminum ions in solution.