An Alternative Utilization of Side Product Sulfur as Eco Bitumen Sulfur Paving Blocks in Gundih CPP in PT. Pertamina Work Area

Abstract

Sulfur is a non-metallic chemical element in the form of a yellow crystalline solid with the chemical formula, and is formed from several types of natural and artificial chemical reactions. Commercial applications of sulfur processed products can be found in various aspects of life, for example in the use of processed sulfur as paving blocks. The Gundih Central Processing Plant (CPP) is capable of producing 14 tons/day of sulfur pellets. This amount comes from the high H2S content of the wells with a total concentration of 20,000 ppm and a volume accumulation of 14 MMSCFD acid gas. H2S is converted to sulfur using the thiobacillus microbe in the Biological Sulfur Recovery Unit (BSRU) with a sulfur product purity level greater than 95%. In 2018 sulfur production at Gundih CPP was recorded at 4044 tons which could potentially trigger serious problems from an environmental aspect. The use of sulfur as material for making paving blocks is an alternative solution in addressing the potential impact on the environment, as regulated by Government Regulation No.22 of Year 2021 concerning the Waste Management of Non-Hazardous and Toxic Substances (B3), and the high cost of handling sulfur by third parties. The design mix of sulfur paving blocks is 42% of 3/16” aggregate, 40% of sand, 11.5% of sulfur pellets, 1.2% of bitumen, and 5.3% of fly ash. Bitumen as a binder for sulfur pellets is fully suitable as a replacement for Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) material, the mineral cement used for the manufacture of paving blocks and bricks. The mixing process and casting temperature must be considered because they affect the ability to bind sulfur with other mixed materials. Strength tests of sulfur paving materials have also been confirmed by external laboratories. Currently, sulfur paving blocks are used in building access to wells locations and in public roads in the Cepu Field area as a contribution from Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).