Maximize cost and safety benefits of scavenging H2S at the wellhead

B. Bowers and E. Cash, Valerus, Houston, Texas It has been estimated by multiple parties that roughly 19 Tcf of natural gas exists in the US in reservoirs that are contaminated with hydrogen sulfide (H2S). H2S is also present in proven major liquid plays, such as the Permian basin and the Eagle Ford shale. With advancements in seismic and drilling technologies, as well as the expanded ability to handle this deadly and corrosive gas, these once-circumvented reserves are now prime targets for exploration due to their potential for high returns. Low-concentration H2S has been commonly treated with solid absorbent beds for the last 100 years, but with the growth in the US unconventional oil an