Mercaptan is a chemical that is used in the oil industry to add a sour taste to the fuel. It can also be found in other products, such as paint and hairspray. Mercaptan is removed from crude oil by boiling it off or distilling it. This is the only way to remove the chemical. Boiling off can be a two-step process: first, heat the crude oil until it reaches a high temperature or boils. Then, cool it down until the mercaptan has vaporized.
You can do this by placing the crude in a large container, such as an open-top kettle or large pot on your stove. The excess amount of vapors will flow into the venting system of your home and leave through your HVAC systems. Distilling usually takes one or two days because there are many layers to separate when distilling mercaptan from oil. It is best to do this outside with a good ventilation system (air conditioner) and safety glasses on at all times.
Mercaptan is a naturally occurring substance found in crude oil and natural gas. It is a common byproduct of the refining of crude oil. Mercaptans typically rise to the top of crude oil as they separate from other products during the distillation process. To remove mercaptans from the crude, follow these simple steps:
A few tips when removing mercaptan from crude oil: When removing mercaptan from the oil, it is important that the sulfur does not return to the crude. This can be accomplished by distilling under vacuum at about 80°C/180°F for about 5 hours. Because of a buildup of pressure, you must purge the still with cold water immediately after running off the liquid.