01 / What it is
Sulfolane
Sulfolane supports the selective extraction of aromatic compounds from hydrocarbon mixtures in appropriately designed processes. Solvent quality and unit operation together influence separation performance and solvent stability.
02 / Where it is used
Application areas
- BTX aromatics extraction
- Benzene, toluene and xylene recovery
- Solvent make-up for qualified extraction systems
03 / Application context
The operating system matters.
Aromatics recovery depends on feed composition, solvent-to-feed practice, water balance, extraction conditions and recovery performance. Solvent degradation, corrosion and contaminant accumulation should be investigated rather than masked by make-up alone.
04 / Selection considerations
Inputs that shape evaluation
| Parameter | Why it matters | Typical evaluation input |
|---|---|---|
| Feed composition | Aromatics and non-aromatics define separation duty. | Detailed feed analysis |
| Water balance | Water influences solvent properties and unit behaviour. | Solvent-water concentration and control method |
| Solvent quality | Purity, acidity and chloride inform condition. | Fresh and circulating solvent analyses |
| Thermal history | High-temperature exposure can contribute to degradation. | Reboiler and recovery-section temperatures |
| Corrosion and solids | Degradation products and contaminants may circulate. | Materials, corrosion observations and filtration |
05 / Technical inquiry
Useful information to include
- Feed and product analyses
- Unit configuration
- Fresh/circulating solvent analysis
- Water, acidity and chloride data
- Degradation or corrosion concerns
Related / Industries
Related / Technologies