Journal Published Online: 01 June 2005
Volume 2, Issue 6

Determination of Total Mercury in Crude Oil by Combustion Cold Vapor Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (CVAAS)

CODEN: JAIOAD

Abstract

Unlike many heavy metals, mercury is a long-range air and water pollutant whose load on the environment is increasing. According to published reports, a major source of atmospheric mercury is the burning of coal for electrical power generation. However, certain crude oils may contain up to several hundred ng/g of total mercury. Accurate analysis of total mercury in crude oil is the first step in determining the value of a crude oil and one's ability to process the material within the refinery, while generating finished products. This paper details the use of Combustion Cold Vapor Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (CVAAS) technology for the analysis of crude samples and distillation cuts. The instrument described in the report is one of several instrument methods currently being evaluated by groups in industry and government. The use of a boat-inlet sample introduction system allows crude oil and other types of material to be analyzed without acid digestion. The strengths and weaknesses of the combustion-CVAAS technique, along with a year's worth of operating experience, will be presented from the user's perspective.

Author Information

Fox, BS
Advanced Research Associate, ExxonMobil Research and Engineering, Paulsboro, New Jersey
Mason, KJ
ExxonMobil Research and Engineering
McElroy, FC
ExxonMobil Research and Engineering
Pages: 11
Price: $25.00
Related
Reprints and Permissions
Reprints and copyright permissions can be requested through the
Copyright Clearance Center
Details
Stock #: JAI13089
ISSN: 1546-962X
DOI: 10.1520/JAI13089