Abstract
This study reports the synthesis and catalytic evaluation of a novel biceolite catalyst based on pillared Na-montmorillonite (NaMM) modified with aluminum. The catalyst incorporates HZSM-5 and HY zeolites (1:1 ratio) into an Al(2.5)NaMM matrix, offering high acidity, thermal stability, and developed porosity. Characterization by XRF, FTIR, and NH₃-TPD confirmed the structural integrity and efficient distribution of acid sites: 45.5% weak, 46.9% medium, and 7.6% strong, with a total acidity of 163.8 µmol NH₃/g. The specific surface area reached 194.1 m²/g, and pore volume was 0.94 cm³/g. The dominance of weak and medium acid sites favors selective cracking of heavy hydrocarbons with minimized coke formation. This makes the catalyst suitable for thermocatalytic recovery of bitumen from bituminous rocks. Its balanced acidity and porous structure enable effective processing of heavy hydrocarbon feedstocks, offering improved efficiency and selectivity. The developed catalyst shows strong potential for applications in advanced upgrading of unconventional petroleum resources.