Inexpensive solvent for elemental sulfur

[tkdhwjd]

A core-in-kettle exchanger performance has been declining over time. The suspected root cause is deposition of elemental sulfur in kettle side of the exchanger. This fouling mechanism has been verified, and the exchanger is being planned to be isolated, cleared, and cleaned in near future.

I heard that toluene at relatively warm temperature (150 to 180 DegF) readily dissolves elemental sulfur, and therefore, it has been suggested as a potential soaking/washing liquid. Unfortunately, it is pretty expensive. Do any of you have any experience with sulfur washing/cleaning/soaking? Any suggestions on other potential solvents that work as effectively as toluene but much less costly?

Appreciate your comments & feedbacks.

 

[unclesyd]

Hot water at 170°C will do a good job with the sulphur. If you can get this temperature you should be able to remove the sulphur.
Takw a look at the Frasch Process.

 

[hacksaw]

if you have trouble finding water at 170 oC steam id\s a good substitute...

 

[25362]

One thought: solvent alternatives are worth of considering with their relevant safety precautions. Although solvents cost money they are recoverable and one could keep them for future re-use. It is logical to assume that just by cooling the hot solution sulfur would drop out as a solid precipitate.

 

[tkdhwjd]

Thank you all for your comments.