Process to abate geothermal hydrogen sulfide

摘要

A process for removing hydrogen sulfide from geothermal steam and from vent streams, or concentrated portions produced by a hydrogen sulfide separation process, includes the steps of introducing an oxygen-containing gas, such as air into the steam, or vent stream, and thereafter contacting the steam and oxygen-containing gas in a contacting stage with iron oxide supported by a carrier resistant to deterioration. The steam having a temperature of at least 250 DEG F. is mixed with oxygen to provide a molar ratio of oxygen-to-hydrogen sulfide ratio of less than about 10. During the contacting stage the pressure of the steam and oxygen-containing gas is maintained at a pressure sufficient to enable removal of a majority of the hydrogen sulfide from the steam and oxygen-containing gas.