Question:

Which of the following statement(s) is/are CORRECT about the chemicals used for the processing of sour crude oil and natural gas?

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Amine units are regenerable systems for H$_2$S/CO$_2$ removal, glycols are used for dehydration but can corrode in oxygen presence, and iron sponges are suitable for low-volume H$_2$S removal.
Updated On: Aug 24, 2025
  • Amine solutions cannot be regenerated after removal of H$_2$S from natural gas.
  • Amine solutions in liquid form absorb H$_2$S from natural gas.
  • Glycols become corrosive in the presence of oxygen.
  • Iron sponges cannot be used for H$_2$S removal.
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The Correct Option is B, C

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Amine solutions and regeneration.
Amine solutions such as MEA (monoethanolamine) and DEA (diethanolamine) are widely used to remove acid gases like H$_2$S and CO$_2$ from natural gas streams. These solutions are \emph{regenerable} by heating in a regenerator/stripper column. Therefore, statement (A) is incorrect. Step 2: Absorption of H$_2$S by amines.
Amine solutions in liquid form react chemically with H$_2$S and CO$_2$ to form soluble salts. This is the fundamental principle of gas sweetening. Hence, statement (B) is correct. Step 3: Glycol behavior.
Glycols (such as MEG – monoethylene glycol and TEG – triethylene glycol) are hygroscopic and used for gas dehydration. In the presence of oxygen, they degrade and form organic acids which can cause severe corrosion. Thus, statement (C) is correct. Step 4: Iron sponges.
Iron sponge (iron oxide impregnated on wood chips) is commonly used for H$_2$S removal through chemical reaction forming Fe$_2$S$_3$. Therefore, statement (D) is false. Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{Statements (B) and (C) are correct.}} \]
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