Standard methods used for mercury analysis in the oil and gas industry

Abstract

Mercury is a contaminant found in a variety of hydrocarbons and non-hydrocarbon streams in the oil and gas industry. Quantification of mercury is an integral part to protect processing units especially those with aluminium components and to safeguard personnel from unwanted exposure to mercury. Although mercury is one of the many impurities in oil and gas, its impact is diverse, and this drives the need to adequately quantify the amount of mercury in the process stream as a first line of defence and to make informed decisions on mitigation. The various types of standard methods available for mercury analysis are listed and classified in this literature based on sample phase for hydrocarbon and non-hydrocarbon samples. Different types of mercury analysis such as total mercury, mercury grouping and mercury speciation are also briefly explored to determine which is best for intent of use. Measurement techniques involving different detectors and their respective detection limits are listed with specific attention provided to atomic absorption and atomic fluorescence. The diverse adoption of various mercury analysis across the hydrocarbon value chain will need to be fit for purpose and meet the analytical requirements of the test conducted.