Saudi Aramco Eliminates Claus Catalyst Deactivation Caused by Aromatics Using Activated Carbon

Saudi Aramco, like other operators with lean feed acid gas<br>containing benzene, toluene and xylene (BTX) has dealt for<br>years with chronic Claus catalyst deactivation, low sulphur<br>recovery and frequent shutdowns to replace catalyst. After<br>completing an exhaustive process selection study to identify<br>the most cost effective solution to the problem, the company<br>proceeded with installation of regenerable activated carbon<br>beds upstream of the sulphur recovery units (SRUs) to remove<br>aromatics contaminants before they reach the converter beds.