Generation and Disposal of Petroleum Processing Waste That Contains Mercury

Wilhelm, S. M., "Generation and Disposal of Petroleum Processing Waste That Contains Mercury", Environmental Progress, June (1999).

ABSTRACT

The origins and fate of mercury found in hydrocarbons are discussed from the perspective of waste minimization, treatment and disposal. Mercury is a common and naturally occurring component of petroleum. Petroleum processing often is accompanied by generation of waste streams that contain some mercury. These waste streams become problematic when the mercury concentration in process feeds exceeds a few ppb because of the highly toxic nature of mercury.

Waste is minimized by mercury removal systems that are now prevalent for many processes, but the main incentive to employ such systems is to protect equipment and catalysts. The removal systems have varied waste disposal consequences depending on their chemical properties and process location. Absent mercury removal systems, mercury contamination results in sludge, sediments, contaminated treatment fluids and a variety of other waste streams that must be carefully controlled, segregated and treated for disposal.

Waste containing mercury is characterized by chemical analysis that is capable of speciating the various forms of mercury and mercury compounds so as to be able to select treatment and disposal options. In many locations where the mercury concentration in process feeds is high, treatment systems for mercury are not readily available resulting in storage of toxic material for long periods of time. Both chemical and thermal treatment systems are commercially available, but access to cost effective treatment is extremely limited in the petroleum industry.



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