Oxidize mercaptans to disulfides for gas condensates and natural gasoline with air, caustic and catalyst using FIBER-FILM contactor technology. This is followed by an upflow catalyst impregnated carbon bed.
The caustic phase flows along the FIBERFILM contactor fibers, which is continuously renewed, as the fibers are preferentially wetted by the caustic phase in the MERICAT II process. Hydrocarbon flows through the shroud parallel to the caustic phase where mercaptans are extracted into the caustic phase. It is converted to disulfides by air and catalyst at the hydrocarbon-caustic interface. The two phases disengage and the hydrocarbon flows upwards through a catalyst impregnated carbon bed where the remaining mercaptans are converted to disulfides.
Economics: FIBER-FILM contactor technology requires smaller processing vessels allowing shorter separation times and less waste generation. This saves plant space and reduces capital expenditures.
Licensor: Merichem Chemicals & Refinery Services LLC
