Xylene and H₂S destruction in high temperature flames under Claus condition

Experimental results on the destruction of H₂S and xylene mixtures in H₂/O₂-N₂ flames, at an equivalence ratio of three (Claus condition) are presented. The combustion generated products, including excited radical species were analyzed using flame emission spectroscopy and online gas chromatography (GC). The results showed the oxidation of H₂S and H₂ that resulted in the formation of high mole fraction of SO₂. The formed SO₂ further decomposed due to the formation of S₂ and CS₂ in the reactor. This reveals the possible interaction between sulfurous and hydrocarbon radicals. The examination of emission spectra of excited species between 280nm and 490nm showed C₂^* and C₃^* swan bands, CHO^* and CH^* bands and H^* (Balmer band series). The results also showed bands of SO, SH, S₂^*, CS₂^* and SO₂^*. The continuum of SO₂ afterglow was also observed in the flame. These results provide insight on the reaction chemistry associated with the destruction of xylene and H₂S. They are also of significant interest to operators and designers of sulfur plants, as well as related policy-makers. The results show the formation of value added chemicals, such as methane that can also be recovered from acid gases.