27-09-2012

Arkema introduces DMDS Evolution E2, a new DMDS grade with optimized odor

Arkema, the world's largest producer of Thiochemicals (sulphur-based fine chemicals), introduces DMDS Evolution® E2, a Dimethyl Disulfide grade with an improved scent especially designed for the refinery and steam cracking applications.
 
Fuel desulfurization, the final step in refining, employs a process called hydrotreating. This hydrotreating process uses catalysts – nickel, molybdenum and cobalt oxides – that have to be activated by an agent, DMDS, which is handled on site by Arkema’s highly qualified technicians through the Carelflex® service.

Like most sulphur derivatives, DMDS has a strong, unpleasant odor although one positive upshot of this is to make leak detection easier. Special procedures are utilized during the Carelflex® service that reduce the possibility of leaks. However, in the early 2000s Arkema successfully introduced the DMDS Evolution® grade with an improved odor that is less unpleasant for those living or working near refineries but can still be detected immediately should a leak occur.

After extensive testing in our R&D laboratory, a more pleasant scent was optimized in order to improve the efficiency of the additive composition. The result is DMDS Evolution® E2, whose odor is again significantly improved compared to the current DMDS Evolution® grade, while ensuring the same level of performance as DMDS.

DMDS Evolution® E2, approved by the world’s major oil and petrochemical companies, has been specifically designed for Carelflex® operations, but the improved odor is valuable in deliveries to petrochemical companies as well.

Starting October 1st 2012, Arkema will supply the new DMDS Evolution® E2 grade in the main packaging size (bulk, SBC) ensuring the hydrotreating sulfiding Carelflex® service.

REACH and Arkema’s DMDS
With regards to regulatory compliance, Arkema registered DMDS as a normal substance under REACH in 2010 with exposure scenarios dedicated to the use of DMDS on petrochemical sites and in refineries. This registration as a normal substance is fully in line with European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) requirements since DMDS cannot be handled as an intermediate in such petrochemical and refining applications.

The exposure scenarios developed for DMDS are also applicable to the DMDS Evolution® E2 formulation and are as follows:
- Use in refineries as hydrotreating catalyst activator.
- Use on petrochemical sites as anti-coking agent.
- Use as intermediate in chemical synthesis.

All relevant regulatory compliance information is contained in the material safety data sheet for DMDS Evolution® E2.

Arkema’s Carelflex® operations are conducted in accordance with these exposure scenarios, ensuring fully compliant use of DMDS Evolution® E2.