KAZAKHSTAN UPSTREAM OIL AND GAS technology and R&d ...

2.3 Management of sulphur
Challenge commentary
Sour oil production from large carbonate
reservoirs across Kazakhstan leads to the
challenge of dealing with huge volumes of
sulphur – its handling, transport and storage
are constant issues for most operators. Some
sulphur is exported, though global supply
outstrips demand and so the market is volatile,
at best.
Kazakhstan would benefit greatly from having
better solutions to the capture and long-term
storage of sulphur. While technologies exist
around the world, there is room for their
improvement and for their better adaptation
to the operating conditions and the natural
environment in the country.
The development and local use of sulphur
products presents a significant opportunity
for Kazakhstan. Sulphur could be used,
for example, to produce chemicals, as an
additive for fertilizers, in building materials
(sulphur concretes) and in the construction of
roads. The challenge for Kazakhstan is both
to develop the necessary technologies to
manufacture these kinds of products and then
to open up the markets for them.
VALUE
2.3.1
2.3.3
2.3.2
ATTRACTIVENESS
67
CHALLENGE (elements)
TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS
Sulphur capture and storage
Development of sulphur
products, fabrication
technology & market
2.3.1 Sulphur storage
2.3.2 Sulphur separation from crude or gas produced
2.3.3 Sulphur utilization
Kazakhstan Upstream oil & gas technology and R&D roadmap