Solvent Chemistry: Application and Selection

Overview

Solvents are used throughout refineries, gas plants and chemical facilities, from amine and glycol systems that treat gas to aromatic extraction, lube oil refining, dewaxing and cleaning operations. The performance of these units depends on the chemistry of the solvent: its selectivity, capacity, stability and interaction with contaminants. Solvent degradation, foaming, corrosion, losses and contamination are among the most common causes of poor performance, off-specification products and high operating costs. Many solvents are also toxic or flammable, so their safe handling and disposal are an important part of plant operation.

This course provides a practical understanding of solvent chemistry as applied in oil, gas and petrochemical processing. Participants learn the principles of solubility, polarity, hydrogen bonding and phase equilibrium, and how they determine solvent selection for absorption, extraction and extractive distillation. The course covers amine and physical solvents for gas treating, glycols for dehydration, sulfolane, NMP, furfural and other solvents for aromatics and lube processing. It also explains solvent degradation mechanisms, foaming, corrosion, reclaiming and filtration, solvent losses and their reduction, laboratory monitoring, and the health, safety and environmental aspects of solvent handling and storage.

Objectives

• Explain solubility, polarity and phase equilibrium as the basis of solvent processes
• Select suitable solvents for absorption, extraction and extractive distillation duties
• Describe the chemistry of amine, physical and glycol solvents used in gas treating
• Understand solvents used in aromatics extraction and lube oil processing
• Identify solvent degradation, foaming and corrosion mechanisms and their causes
• Apply reclaiming, filtration and monitoring methods to maintain solvent quality
• Handle, store and dispose of solvents safely and in line with environmental rules

Who should attend

Training methodology

The course combines explanation of solvent chemistry with analysis of real laboratory results, operating data and troubleshooting cases from gas, refining and petrochemical units. Participants interpret solvent analyses for heat stable salts, degradation products, water and contaminants, calculate solvent circulation and losses, and compare solvents for given separation duties. Foaming and corrosion problems are examined through practical examples and photographs. Safety data sheets are reviewed to identify handling and exposure controls. Group exercises reinforce key points, and each day ends with a short quiz and discussion of solvent issues at participants' plants.

Programme outline

Dates and fees

Certificate

Frequently asked questions