Presentation Profile
The Importance of Chloride Measurement in Petroleum Samples
Currently Scheduled: 1/18/2018 - 9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
Room: Room 372 D
Main Author
Michael C. Pohl - HORIBA Instruments, Inc.
Abstract:
Chloride is a ubiquitous element in earth's environment and plays a very large role in the Petroleum Industry. In many environments it plays a very beneficial role, but in this industry it often has very detrimental effects. From corrosion of metal components at a refinery to catalyst poisoning at a chemical plant, it has the potential to cost chemical processors huge sums of money. The problems are magnified because many processes are continuous and so even low concentrations can have a cumulative effect over time.
Chloride levels are typically low, which is a bit of a mixed blessing. They do not do their damage at a very rapid rate, but at typical PPM levels, are difficult to remove and challenging to quantitate. As with many Petroleum related challenges, over the years, a number of ASTM Methods have been written to address the acceptable levels of chloride and also how they can be determined. The specifications, as well as the appropriate analytical methods, will be reviewed and discussed. They will also be applied to very specific petroleum samples.
One of the most popular methods in use today is the combustion - microcoulometric analysis. This very simple, well-known method can easily be applied to petroleum samples. The technique will be discussed in detail as well as the components attached to a typical system. The ASTM and ISO methods, which reference this technique, will be illustrated. The fuel and other petroleum specifications will be discussed relative to the inclusion of these methods in the specification.
