Journal Majelis Paspama
Vol. 4 No. 02 (2026): Journal Majelis Paspama, 2026, inpres

Implementing Eco-Efficient Mercury Mitigation Strategies in Natural Gas Operations for Enhanced Sustainability

Onuoha Fidelis Wopara (Petroleum Engineering Department, Rivers State University Port-Harcourt)
Nnadikwe Johnson (Centre For Gas Refining And Petrochemical Engineering, University of Port-Harcourt,Rivers State Nigeria)



Article Info

Publish Date
11 Mar 2026

Abstract

Mercury contamination in natural gas fields poses significant environmental and operational risks, particularly to brazed aluminum heat exchangers in LNG facilities and nitrogen rejection units. To address these concerns, this research evaluates eco-efficient mercury mitigation strategies for natural gas operations. Various mercury removal technologies are assessed, including metal sulfide adsorbents and activated carbons, with a focus on a gas project containing up to 70 µg/Sm3 of mercury. Technical and economic analysis reveals that sulfur-impregnated metallic oxide technology is the most suitable option for mercury removal. Key findings indicate that installing the mercury removal unit after the inlet separator and before CO2 removal minimizes mercury venting and pipe contamination. The bed's lifespan depends on feed gas pretreatment, and filtration is required regardless of location. Cost analysis shows metal oxide technology has the lowest CAPEX due to smaller vessel size and lowest overall cost over 25 years. Activated carbon beds have the cheapest single bed cost and OPEX, but similar lifespan to metal oxide beds. The proposed location works well with water-saturated gas below 95°C. Implementing these strategies enhances sustainability and protects equipment

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Journal Info

Abbrev

majelis

Publisher

Subject

Civil Engineering, Building, Construction & Architecture Computer Science & IT Engineering Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering Mechanical Engineering

Description

Journal Majelis Paspama The following journals that receive a multidisciplinary research focus with a Scope of Engineering accept submissions of scientific articles for research in the form of research results, surveys, and literature in the fields of engineering, including: Informatics Engineering, ...