Process for sulfiding an additive-containing catalyst

Abstract

The present invention pertains to a process for sulfiding a catalyst composition comprising at least one hydrogenation metal component of Group VI and/or Group VIII of the Periodic Table, and an organic additive wherein the catalyst composition is first contacted with an organic liquid, followed by the catalyst being contacted with hydrogen and a sulfur-containing compound in the gaseous phase, wherein less than about 40%, preferably less than about 35%, more preferably less than about 25%, most preferably less than about 15%, of the sulfur present in the sulfided catalyst is added with the organic liquid. The process of the present invention makes it possible to use additive-containing catalysts without loss of activity in units which cannot effect gas phase start-up or are required to carry out a pressure test. The organic liquid may be a hydrocarbon with a boiling range of about 150-500° C., preferably gasoline, white spirit, diesel, gas oil, mineral lube oil, or white oil. The step of contacting the catalyst with hydrogen and a sulfur-containing compound may take place in one step at a temperature of about 150-450° C. It may also take place in two steps, with the first step being performed at a temperature which is lower than that of the second step, with the first step being carried out at a temperature of about 100-250° C. and the second step at a temperature of about 150-450° C.