Application of Alkylnaphthalene Absorption Oil as a Sulfur Solvent in Sour-Gas Wells

This paper reports on elemental sulfur which is soluble in sour gas and often precipitates in sour-gas wells during production. Prevention of sulfur deposition in the production equipment requires the application of a sulfur solvent. An aqueous alkaline solvent is inadequate at increasing formation-water inflow resulting in severe carbonate precipitation. The new solvent is based on a mixture of alkylnaphthalenes diluted in a mineral oil. Both can combine physically with the precipitated sulfur. The performance of the solvent during circulation, its regeneration, and its behavior in corrosion inhibition is outlined. Application of this solvent improved the production of the treated sour-gas wells.