| abstract |
The present invention relates to an aqueous alkanolamine solution for the removal of hydrogen sulfide from gaseous mixtures. The aqueous alkanolamine solution comprises (i) an amino compound with the formula: R 1 R 2 NCH 2 CH(OH)CH 2 OH wherein R 1 and R 2 independently represent lower alkyl groups of 1 to 3 carbon atoms and (ii) an acid or acid-forming material having a pKa equal to or less than 8, optionally (iii) another amino compound, and optionally (iv) a physical solvent. Further, the present invention relates to a process for removing acid gases from a gaseous mixture, preferably hydrogen sulfide, comprising the step of contacting the gaseous mixture with the aqueous alkanolamine solution, preferably wherein the temperature of the aqueous alkanolamine solution is equal to or greater than 140°F. Examples of the gaseous mixtures include natural gas, synthesis gas, tail gas, and refinery gas. |