Monday, March 17, 2008 - 9:05 AM
Convention Center, Second Level, R07 (Ernest N. Morial Convention Center)
08515

HDPE Solves Alkylation Sewer Corrosion Problems in Refinery

Christine Osborne, Henkel Technologies

Oil refineries use sulfuric acid or hydrofluoric acid as a catalyst in the alkylation of isobutene.  Process wastewater streams discharging from alkylation units, where this process step takes place, are often characterized by a low pH.  This low pH wastewater reacts with alkaline Portland cement in concrete wastewater collection and conveyance structures, compromising their structural integrity.  This paper reviews one oil refinery’s use of HDPE liners to renovate and protect its deteriorated concrete process sewer structures downstream of its sulfuric acid alkylation unit.