Sulfidic corrosion in refineries - a review

Sulfidic corrosion of steels in refineries is a prevalent phenomenon that occurs in oil containing sulfur species between 230 degrees C and 425 degrees C. There are several internal and external variables controlling the occurrence of sulfidic corrosion. The most important external factors are temperature, concentration and type of sulfur species, and presence of naphthenic acid. The most important internal or metallurgical factor to control sulfidic corrosion is the amount of chromium in the steel. The refinery industry relies today in a vast industrial experience on the variables affecting sulfidic corrosion but very little is known on the basic mechanism of attack. There is ample room for research and the basic understanding of this phenomenon.