Abstract: The invention pertains to a process for activating a hydrotreating catalyst comprising a Group VIII hydrogenation metal and a Group VI hydrogenation metal, which are substantially in the oxide form, on a carrier in which the hydrotreating catalyst is contacted with an additive which is at least one compound selected from the group of compounds comprising at least two hydroxyl groups and 2-10 carbon atoms, and the (poly)ethers of these compounds, after which the catalyst is dried under such conditions that at least 50% of the additive remains in the catalyst. The additive is preferably at least one compound selected from ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, and polyethylene glycol, or a saccharide or a polysaccharide. The invention additionally pertains to the catalyst obtainable by this process, which shows high activity in hydrodesulphurization and hydrodenitrogenation reactions, and to the use of the catalyst in hydrotreating.

Abstract: Catalysts for hydrodesulfurization and hydrodenitrogenation of hydrocarbon oils are provided which have high catalytic activity, excellent productivity and low pollution. The catalysts are made from an alumina carrier substance, at least one active metal element selected from the Group VI metals in the periodic table, at least one active metal element chosen from the Group VIII metals in the periodic table, phosphoric acid, and an additive agent. The additive agent is at least one substance selected from dihydric or trihydric alcohols having 2-10 carbon atoms per one molecule, ethers of the alcohols, monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides. A method for preparing the catalysts is also provided and includes impregnating the alumina carrier substance with a solution mixed with a certain amount of the active metal elements, phosphoric acid and the additive agent, and drying the impregnated carrier substance at a temperature of less than 200.degree. C.