Factors Contributing to the Ability of Acrolein To Scavenge Corrosive Hydrogen Sulfide

Abstract

Abstract Acrolein can function under a variety of conditions as an effective hydrogen sulfide scavenger in oilfield waterflood systems. The scavenging ability is maximized in waters having a pH range of 6 through 8, a total dissolved solids level below 1%, and temperatures less than 149°F [65°C]. At least 4 ppm acrolein is necessary to achieve sufficient reaction of each original 1 ppm hydrogen sulfide. This reaction requires about 2 to 20 minutes, depending on the nature of me system. Although sand, garnet, or diatpmaceous earth filters do not affect the scavenging ability of acrolein, charcoal filters, large tanks, long pipelines, high-temperature Wemcos, and reboilers can produce diminished effects. Further diminished effects also can be produced when incompatible chemicals are used concurrently with acrolein. Some application techniques that can lessen or eliminate these adverse conditions are presented.