Process, method, and system for removing heavy metals from fluids

摘要

Trace levels of heavy metals in fluids such as crude oil are reduced by contacting the crude oil with a composition comprising a compound of Formula (I), wherein X is an anion of valency n, the number of phosphonium cations present. In one embodiment, the composition further comprises a complexing additive comprising an amine or corresponding ammonium derivative. Upon contact with the crude oil, the heavy metals form soluble complexes with the compound of Formula (I) for subsequent removal from the crude oil via phase separation.