A review of the Thiopaq process for biological hydrogen sulfide removal from sour gases

Different technologies have been employed for hydrogen sulfide removal from sour gases, whether natural gas, biogas, or other gases, based on market requirements and environmental regulations. Several biological desulfurization technologies have been established for sulfur recovery such as Thiopaq technology. It is considered an ecological, and environmentally sustainable solution that has been studied, developed and commercialized since the end of the past century in different industries especially for biogas desulfurization. In addition, the process offers a decarbonation simultaneously with sulfur recovery. The current work reviews Thiopaq from different aspects that correlate all the technology pillars such as microorganisms, the valuable biosulfur, technology economics, the main operating parameters in addition to a brief description of the sections presented with chemistry of main and side reactions and the technology advantages and disadvantages. Future work should consider deeper research of the viability of technology for decarbonation. In addition, employing mathematical modeling and computation fluid dynamics are crucial for better understanding of bioreactors, the cornerstone of biological desulfurization, in terms of aeration and redox control. Other recommendations are presented.