Process for removing metals from hydrocarbons

摘要

Disclosed is a process for the removal of mercury from a mercury-containing hydrocarbon fluid feed using specifically selected ionic liquids, said process comprising; contacting the mercury-containing hydrocarbon fluid feed with an ionic liquid having the formula [Cat][M][X] and separating from the ionic liquid a hydrocarbon fluid product having a reduced mercury content compared to the mercury-containing fluid feed. Wherein [Cat] represents one or more organic cationic species, [M] represents one or more metal cations selected from transition metal cations having an oxidation state of +2 or greater, and [X-] represents one or more anionic species.