Impact of Organophosphorus Compounds on Sulfur Solubility in Organic and Amine Solvents for Sour Gas Reservoirs

Abstract This study investigates the solubility of elemental sulfur in various solvents, including toluene, amines, and organophosphorus compounds, specifically triphenylphosphine (TPP) and tributylphosphine (TBP). The solubility of sulfur was tested under atmospheric pressure and ambient temperature, and the results showed that quinoline exhibited the highest sulfur solubility among the amines, while TPP and TBP significantly enhanced sulfur solubility in comparison to conventional solvents like toluene. A novel approach was introduced by eliminating the filtering and washing steps typically required for sulfur removal, using amine agents to prevent the precipitation of sulfur compounds. This modification made the process more efficient, faster, and suitable for practical field applications. Additionally, the use of TBP in sulfur solubility is a new concept with potential implications for sulfur management in the oil and gas industry. In this work, the formation of organophosphorus sulfide was also examined using gas chromatography. These findings provide a foundation for future research aimed at optimizing sulfur removal techniques for industrial applications.