| abstract |
A process for reducing the aliphatic sulfur content of a crude oil in a production site is disclosed. A crude oil with a high aliphatic sulfur content is treated at ambient reaction temperature with an oxidant which comprises formic acid and hydrogen peroxide. Preferably, the crude is treated with an amount of the oxidant of about 2 moles of oxidant for each mole of aliphatic sulfur in the crude. Preferably reaction temperature ranges from about 30° F. to 100° F. The oxidant converts the aliphatic sulfur compounds of the crude to a water soluble phase which is separated from the crude oil in a water wash. |