Patent ID: 9199898
Filing Date: 2015-12-01
Classification: C07C,C10G,C10L

Abstract:
1. A method for concurrently transporting and removing a trace amount of volatile mercury in a natural gas stream extracted from a subterranean formation, comprising: obtaining a produced fluid containing the natural gas and produced water from the subterranean formation; transporting the produced fluid in a pipeline extending from a well head above the subterranean formation to a production facility; injecting into the pipeline carrying the produced fluid an effective amount of a hydrate inhibitor, a complexing agent and optionally at least one of a defoamer and a demulsifier; wherein the complexing agent extracts volatile mercury in the natural gas, forming non-volatile mercury complexes in the produced water at a temperature of >=0° C., for a treated produced fluid having a concentration of hydrate particles of less than 50 volume % and a reduced concentration of volatile mercury.