On the Effect of the Reaction Medium on the HydroClaus Process: A Novel Sustainable H₂S Valorization Strategy

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is becoming a critical issue to manage, due the increasing sulfur content in processed gas together with stricter environmental regulations. Novel alternatives are being developed for H2S abatement and conversion valuable chemicals. Among them, HydroClaus process, patented by Eni S.p.A., deserves attention. This technology aims at converting SO2 into hydrophilic mixture of sulfur-rich compounds, polythionates, be used as fertilizer. An improved configuration an efficient water management proposed this work. The process operability has been demonstrated bench scale, through ad hoc experimental campaign. For scale-up, flowsheet set up its performances have assessed terms heat material balances CO2 emissions. Results reveal that modified can valid solution effective valorization, also considering no direct emissions released. Moreover, since only electric power required, further reduction indirect expected, if renewable sources exploited purpose.