SCAVOP

The SCAVenger OPtimisation (SCAVOP) project is working to find new recommendations for the use of H2S scavengers, so that the consumption of the environmentally and costly chemicals can be reduced in the oil and gas industry. The use of H2S scavengers leaves scale in the pipes, and it is unclear where these deposits typically occur and whether it can be optimised.

Challenge

When extracting gas from the North Sea, industry operators add chemicals called H2S scavengers to remove corrosive hydrogen sulfide (H2S), which occurs naturally in gas extracted from below the surface. When H2S scavengers are added to the gas, it is converted into a solid, which leaves scale in the pipes that transport the gas to refineries. This, therefore, requires costly maintenance. It is unclear where these deposits typically occur and whether this can be optimised.

Solution idea

The partners in the SCAVOP (SCAVenger OPtimisation) project are developing a simulation model for how operators in the oil and gas industry can optimise the addition of H2S scavengers.

The model provides an accurate picture of how H2S scavengers are absorbed into the gas from the subsurface when extracted. At the same time, it shows how and where deposits are formed in the gas pipes. The project will reduce the amount of maintenance on oil and gas production and processing facilities by optimising the injection of H2S scavengers in oil and gas production.

Project deliverables

The project will lead to new recommendations for the use of H2S scavengers, so that the consumption of the environmentally damaging and costly chemicals can be reduced in the oil and gas industry.