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Given the abundance of clay minerals in oil shales, the in-situ cracking of oil shale is preferably enhanced by catalysis, such as by modifying reservoir clays with soluble catalytically active materials. In this work, nickel-modified montmorillonite was synthesized via a simple method, and the feasibility of in-situ catalytic cracking of oil shales to facilitate engineering implementation was investigated. Thermogravimetric analysis was performed to assess the impact of the catalyst on the pyrolysis behavior of kerogen. The results demonstrated that nickel-modified montmorillonite effectively reduces the initial cracking temperature of kerogen and enhances the hydrocarbon generation rate. The results of thermogravimetric-Fourier transform infrared spectrum and thermogravimetricmass spectrometry analysis revealed a significant boost in the production of smaller molecules and non-condensable gases, including hydrogen, methane, ethane, and benzene. Concurrently, there was a notable reduction in carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide emissions. Pyrolysis experiments were conducted to provide additional evidence of the effectiveness of nickel-modified montmorillonite, confirmed by a decrease in semi-coke production and a notable 11.25% increase in oil yield. Furthermore, the composition analysis of shale oil indicated an increased production of alkenes and aromatic hydrocarbons. These findings suggest that the addition of nickel-modified montmorillonite effectively enhances the depolymerization, deoxygenation and aromatization reaction, resulting in the formation of valuable products during the pyrolysis of oil shale kerogen. This study offers a promising avenue of cost-effective and efficient in-situ oil shale exploitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the face of the complex global energy transition, the development of unconventional oil and gas resources, such as oil shale, shale oil, and shale gas, encounters challenges related to carbon neutrality, technological complexities, and costs. However, the world's strained energy landscape and the fact that the new energy industry has yet to take shape also present rich opportunities for the development of these resources. Against this background, a conference platform was established at Jilin University for facilitating scholarly exchange and discussion on the exploration and development technologies of shale oil and gas. The 5th International Symposium on Shale Oil and Gas Exploration and Development Technologies was successfully held in Changchun from November 10 to 12, 2023. The symposium attracted over 210 experts and scholars from more than 59 institutions worldwide, representing the field of shale oil and gas exploration, development, and utilization. Participating delegates shared their accomplishments in the realm of shale oil and gas exploration and development technologies, engaging in profound discussions and fruitful exchanges on these subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]