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Solubility of Acid Gases in TEG Solution

In gas dehydration service, triethylene glycol (TEG) will absorb limited quantities of BTEX (benzene, toluene,
ethylbenzene, and xylene) and acid gases such as carbon dioxide (CO2) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) from the
gas. Predicted absorption levels for acid gases can be as high as about 10 SCF/gallon (75 SCM/m3) of TEG
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solution and depends on temperature, pressure, acid gas concentration in the vapor phase and TEG
concentration. Figure 18.16 in reference [1] shows the solubility of H2S in TEG at various H2S partial
pressures. This is true absorption that takes place in the absorber and corresponds to typical actual plant Search
data. Figure 18.17 also in reference [1] shows solubility of CO2 in a 96.5 weight percent TEG solution. The
2 absorption of acid gases increases with TEG purity. The solution of acid gases in TEG solution lowers its pH
and enhances corrosion. In addition, one of the main issues is dealing with the H2S that comes off the still English TOTM Hom
regenerator. This is a problem if vented (bad smell & poisonous) and can be a significant source of emissions
(SO2) if burned. Spanish TOTM Hom
In the June 2011 tip of the month (TOTM), we presented diagrams for quick estimation of absorption of BTEX in the glycol
dehydration systems using the experimental vapor-liquid equilibrium data. The objective of this TOTM is to reproduce Archives
similar diagrams covering wide ranges of operating conditions. First we demonstrate the accuracy of a recent model
proposed by Mamrosh et al. [2] against Gas Processors Association experimental data and then reproduce some of their
recommended diagrams for approximate and quick estimation of acid gas absorption in TEG solution. May 2014
Mamrosh-Fisher-Matthews Solubility Model: April 2014
Recently, Mamrosh et al. [2] presented the following correlation based on the experimental data to estimate solubility of March 2014
CO2 and H2S in TEG solution.
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Solubility of Acid Gases in TEG Solution | Campbell Tip of the Month Seite 2 von 20
The values of the A, B, C, D, and E parameters are given in Table 1. For details of the calculation procedure and a sample
calculation refer to reference [2].
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The accuracy of the Mamrosh et al. [2] model was evaluated against the experimental data of Gas Processor Association Refining
Research Reports RR 183 [3] and RR 189 [4] for CO2 and H2S solubility in TEG solution, respectively. The summary of
our evaluation results is shown in Table 2. Reliability Enginee
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It should be noted that for three cases of experimental data of H2S in TEG/H2O system, the absolute percent deviations
were abnormally high (128, 260, and 319 %); therefore, they were eliminated from our analysis. Considering the error
analysis shown in Table 2, the proposed model by Mamrosh et al. [2] has good accuracy for estimating solubility of acid
gases in TEG/H2O solution. All experimental data reported in GPA RR 183 and RR 189 were collected at equilibrium. No
consideration in the proposed model is given to the rate at which processes reach equilibrium.

Figures 1 and 2 present a graphical comparison of the calculated CO2 and H2S solubility (mole fraction of acid gas in the
liquid phase) with the experimental data of GPA RR 183 and GPA RR 189 for CO2 and H2S, respectively. Overall, good
accuracy is observed for both systems in these two figures. The ranges of data are the same as those shown in Table 2.

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Figure 1. Accuracy of the proposed model by Mamrosh et al. [2] for estimating CO2 solubility in TEG solution against GPA
RR 183 experimental data [3]

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Figure 2. Accuracy of the proposed model by Mamrosh et al. [2] for estimating H2S solubility in TEG solution against GPA
RR 189 experimental data [4]

In Figures 3 through and 8 we have reproduced the CO2 and H2S solubility (on volumetric basis of SCF/gallon of TEG
solution or SCM/m3 of TEG solution) for pressures of 1000 and 500 (6897 and 3448 kPa) representing contactor pressure,
and 50 psia (345 kPa) representing the flash separator in a typical TEG dehydration unit. In each of these diagrams the
solubility is presented as a function of temperature, acid gas mole % in the gas phase, and H2O weight % in TEG solution
based on the model proposed by Mamrosh et al. [2]. These figures are reproduced in the field or Engineering (FPS) and
SI (International) systems of units. They can be quickly used to estimate acid gas absorption by TEG solution. In addition,
Figures A1 through A6 in Appendix A present solubility of acid gases in terms mole fraction instead of volume basis.

Conclusions:

We have performed an independent evaluation of a recently developed model by Mamrosh et al. [2] for estimation of acid
gas absorption by TEG solution while dehydrating natural gas. Our evaluation was based on the experimentally measured
data reported in the GPA RR 183 [3] and GPA RR 189 [4]. All experimental data reported in GPA RR 183 and RR 189
were collected at equilibrium. No consideration in the proposed model is given to the rate at which processes reach
equilibrium.

The analysis of Figures 1 and 2 and Table 2 indicates, that even though the Mamrosh et al. [2] model is simple and easy
to use, it is relatively accurate for estimation purposes. It also covers a wide range of operating conditions. Based on this
model we have reproduced Figures 3 through 8 in the field and SI systems of units that can be used to estimate the
absorption of CO2 and H2S in TEG solution during gas dehydration. The analysis of Figures 3 through 8 also indicates that
at the same conditions, the solubility of H2S is almost 5 times greater than that of CO2. In addition, it can be concluded that
the absorption of acid gases increase as:

• Pressure increases
• Temperature decreases
• Acid gas concentration in gas phase increases
• TEG concentration in liquid phase increases
• TEG solution circulation rate increases

To learn more about similar cases and how to minimize operational problems, we suggest attending our G40
(Process/Facility Fundamentals), G4 (Gas Conditioning and Processing), PF81 (CO2 Surface Facilities), and PF4
(Oil Production and Processing Facilities) courses.

John M. Campbell Consulting (JMCC) offers consulting expertise on this subject and many others. For more information
about the services JMCC provides, visit our website at www.jmcampbellconsulting.com, or email your consulting needs
to consulting@jmcampbell.com.

By: Dr. Mahmood Moshfeghian

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Figure 3 (FPS). Estimated solubility CO2 in TEG solution at 1000 psia as a function of temperature, CO2 mole % in vapor
phase and water weight %

Figure 3 (SI). Estimated solubility CO2 in TEG solution at 6897 kPa as a function of temperature, CO2 mole % in vapor
phase and water weight %

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Figure 4 (FPS). Estimated solubility H2S in TEG solution at 1000 psia as a function of temperature, H2S mole % in vapor
phase and water weight %

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Figure 4 (SI). Estimated solubility H2S in TEG solution at 6897 kPa as a function of temperature, H2S mole % in vapor
phase and water weight %

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Figure 5 (FPS). Estimated solubility CO2 in TEG solution at 500 psia as a function of temperature, CO2 mole % in vapor
phase and water weight %

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Figure 5 (SI). Estimated solubility CO2 in TEG solution at 3448 kPa psia as a function of temperature, CO2 mole % in
vapor phase and water weight %

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Figure 6 (FPS). Estimated solubility H2S in TEG solution at 500 psia as a function of temperature, H2S mole % in vapor
phase and water weight %

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Figure 6 (SI). Estimated solubility H2S in TEG solution at 3448 kPa as a function of temperature, H2S mole % in vapor
phase and water weight %

Figure 7 (FPS). Estimated solubility CO2 in TEG solution at 50 psia as a function of temperature, CO2 mole % in vapor
phase and water weight %

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Figure 7 (SI). Estimated solubility CO2 in TEG solution at 345 kPa psia as a function of temperature, CO2 mole % in vapor
phase and water weight %

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Figure 8 (FPS). Estimated solubility H2S in TEG solution at 50 psia as a function of temperature, H2S mole % in vapor
phase and water weight %

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Figure 8 (SI). Estimated solubility H2S in TEG solution at 345 kPa as a function of temperature, H2S mole % in vapor
phase and water weight %

Reference:

1. Campbell, J. M. “Gas conditioning and processing, Volume 2: The Equipment Modules,” John M. Campbell and
Company, Norman, Oklahoma, USA, 2001.
2. Mamrosh, D., Fisher, K. and J. Matthews, “Preparing solubility data for use by the gas processing industry:
Updating Key Resources,” Presented at 91st Gas Processors Association National Convention, New Orleans,
Louisiana, USA, April 15-18, 2012.
3. Davis, P.M., et al.; “The Impact of Sulfur Species on Glycol Dehydration – A Study of the Solubility of Certain
Gases and Gas Mixtures in Glycol Solutions at Elevated Pressures and Temperatures, Revised RR Draft for
Phase I: CO2/CH4/EG/TEG;” GPA Research Report, RR-183; Gas Processors Association., Tulsa Oklahoma,
USA, 2002.
4. Marriott, R.A., et al.; “The impact of Sulfur Species on Glycol Dehydration – A Study of the Solubility of Certain
Gases and Gas Mixtures in Glycol Solutions at Elevated Pressures and Temperatures, VLE Data for the
H2S/CH4/EG/H2O System and the H2S/CH4/TEG/H2O System,” GPA Research Report, RR-189; Gas Processors
Association., Tulsa Oklahoma, USA, 2005.

Appendix A

Additional solubility Diagrams

Figure A1. Estimated solubility CO2 in TEG solution at 1000 psia [6897 kPa] as a function of temperature, CO2 mole % in
vapor phase and water weight %

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Figure A2. Estimated solubility H2S in TEG solution at 1000 psia [6897 kPa] as a function of temperature, H2S mole % in
vapor phase and water weight %

Figure A3. Estimated solubility CO2 in TEG solution at 500 psia [3448 kPa] as a function of temperature, CO2 mole % in
vapor phase and water weight %

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Figure A4. Estimated solubility H2S in TEG solution at 500 psia [3448 kPa] as a function of temperature, H2S mole % in
vapor phase and water weight %

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Figure A5. Estimated solubility CO2 in TEG solution at 50 psia [345 kPa] as a function of temperature, CO2 mole % in
vapor phase and water weight %

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Figure A6. Estimated solubility H2S in TEG solution at 50 psia [345 kPa] as a function of temperature, H2S mole % in
vapor phase and water weight %

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Posted on June 1, 2012 at 12:04 pm

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Written by Dr. Mahmood Moshfeghian

Dr. Mahmood Moshfeghian is an instructor and consultant with John M Campbell and Company (JMC). He is the author of
most of Campbell Tips of the Month and develops technical software for JMC. He has 35 years teaching experience in
universities (Oklahoma State University, University of Shiraz, University of Sydney and University of Qatar) as well as for
oil and gas industries. Dr. Moshfeghian joined JMC in 1990 as a part time consultant and then as full time
instructor/consultant in 2005. Previous to joining JMC, Dr. Moshfeghian was a Senior Research Scientist at Kuwait
Institute for Scientific Research and Professor of Chemical Engineering at Shiraz University. Dr. Moshfeghian is a senior
member of AIChE and has published numerous technical papers on thermodynamic properties, and Process Engineering.
Dr. Moshfeghian has presented invited papers in international conferences. He holds a B.S., an M.S. and a Ph.D. in
Chemical Engineering, all from Oklahoma State University.

View all posts by: Dr. Mahmood Moshfeghian

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5 Responses to “Solubility of Acid Gases in TEG Solution”

1. Abdelrahman says:
June 3, 2012 at 10:37 am

very good study , thanks very much , however i think there is a typo error in the conclusion as follows:

As per the presented graphs we can conclude that the absorption of acid gases increase as temperature decrease
not increase, please verify and correct this typo error in the conclusion part of this study if needed
again thanks alot for TOTM we are really so interested on it

Reply
2. admin says:
June 4, 2012 at 2:18 pm

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Solubility of Acid Gases in TEG Solution | Campbell Tip of the Month Seite 19 von 20
Thanks for your comment, Abdelrahman. This typo has been corrected.

Reply
3. Charanjit Jootla says:
June 10, 2012 at 2:56 am

Very informative and comphrensive. Do we have similar figures for low pressures at the Regenerator still where
the pressure is close to atmospheric and the temperature is around 370 deg F ?

This is to determine how much of H2S / CO2 will be in the lean TEG solution AFTER Regenerator stripping i.e.
how much of H2S / CO2 is “unavoidable” in the lean TEG solution.

Also, solubility data at the Regenerator conditions will help in doing a rough mass balance of the H2S and CO2
which comes out with the rich TEG, how much leaves via the Flash Drum / Regenerator and how much gets
“recycled” back to the Contactor via the lean TEG stream.

Reply
4. vamsi.krishnaprasad says:
June 15, 2012 at 1:55 am

good one

Reply
5. R Hussain says:
June 25, 2012 at 1:02 am

Very informative article, thanks. – R Hussain

Reply

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