Why wait on capital approval? Flexible leasing options for the HORIBA Process Raman Analyzer are now available. Real-time insights.
Zero compromises.
Raman Spectroscopy for Sulfuric Acid Monitoring
Optimize Your Alkylation Process with Real-Time Acid Monitoring
The alkylation process is a crucial step in modern refinery operations, producing critical gasoline components to meet stringent fuel specifications. Accurately monitoring sulfuric acid concentration during alkylation is essential for maintaining efficiency and optimal reaction conditions.
Though they generate accurate data, traditional monitoring methods like laboratory titration require time-consuming manual sampling, interrupting continuous process control.
HORIBA Process Instruments provides an alternative solution with fiber-coupled Raman scattering instruments engineered for continuous sulfuric acid monitoring in harsh refinery environments.
Contact our expert team today to learn more about how our Raman spectroscopy solutions can support your sulfuric acid monitoring processes.
Your Simple, Cost-efficient Turnkey Solution
At HORIBA Process Instruments, we understand the unique demands of your industry. Our cutting-edge solutions are designed to deliver accurate, real-time insights for process optimization, safety, and compliance. From oil and gas to pharmaceuticals and beyond, we provide reliable tools that empower you to monitor critical parameters, reduce operational costs, and improve product quality.
Why Use Raman for Sulfuric Acid?
Sulfuric acid is uniquely well-suited for Raman spectroscopy because it produces exceptionally strong and distinct molecular signatures that make detection highly accurate and reliable. Unlike other optical methods that struggle in water-based environments, Raman technology performs with precision in aqueous systems. For sulfuric acid monitoring in aqueous refinery environments, Raman spectroscopy offers a level of precision and reliability unmatched by other methods.
Process Raman Solutions for Sulfuric Acid Monitoring
HORIBA Process Instruments offers a range of Process Raman analyzers for sulfuric acid monitoring applications, from single-point measurements to multi-stream applications.
Our Raman probes can be manufactured with customized metallurgies and alloys to withstand the harsh chemical environments required for sulfuric acid applications. They are designed for direct insertion into the process stream without the need for sample conditioning. The system communicates with a base instrument remotely located in the safe environment of the control room, enabling seamless integration with refinery operations.
Together, these features deliver a monitoring solution that fits seamlessly into refinery operations with minimal disruption. Explore our range of Raman Analyzers below:
-
PI-200-SP - Single-Point Analyzer: Monitor one critical location with direct, in-process measurement that eliminates complex sampling systems and reduces downtime.
-
PI-200-DP - Dual-Point Analyzer: Simultaneously track two process points, such as the start and end of a reaction, with one analyzer. Perfect for monitoring acid strength before and after critical process steps.
-
PI-200-I - Multi-Channel Analyzer: Monitor up to 17 different sampling points across multiple process streams with a single analyzer. Optimal for plant-wide monitoring across multiple alkylation trains and regeneration units.
-
PI-200-L - Laboratory QC/QA Analyzer: Benchtop Raman analyzer with optional auto-sampler often used for developing calibration models and performing high-throughput quality testing.
Proven Accuracy & Reliability
Raman Spectra of Laboratory-Prepared Sulfuric Acid Dilutions
The HORIBA PI-200-L instrument has been used to record Raman spectra of laboratory-prepared sulfuric acid dilutions ranging from 95% to 85% acid concentrations, covering the full operational range typically encountered in alkylation units.
Changes in acid concentration are reflected in the Raman peaks:
-
The peaks at 913 cm⁻¹ and 1162 cm⁻¹ decrease with dilution
-
The peak at 1043 cm⁻¹ increases substantially
This combination of increasing and decreasing peaks creates a robust chemometric model for correlating Raman spectra with acid concentrations. Fouling or contamination, meanwhile, shows up immediately as an abnormal pattern across the peaks, making the system self-verifying in a way that a single-peak measurement cannot be.
Typical Online PLS Analysis of the Sulfur Concentrations
Partial Least Squares (PLS) analysis was applied to 64 alkylation unit samples, using both the Raman spectra and laboratory titration data to build a predictive model.
The PLS Model:
-
Leveraged the three prominent acid peaks in the 850 to 1250 cm⁻¹ wavenumber region
-
Achieved a standard deviation of 0.11 %Wt for predicted versus laboratory values.
-
Demonstrated precision well within the 0.2 %Wt variance inherent to conventional titration techniques.
The strong agreement between predicted and actual sulfuric acid concentrations demonstrates the reliability of on-line Raman spectroscopy for in-situ monitoring.
By providing continuous, accurate, and non-invasive measurement, HORIBA’s Raman solution enhances process control, reduces sampling delays, and supports consistent alkylation unit performance. This advancement represents a significant step forward in optimizing refining operations through innovative monitoring technologies.
Transition to Continuous Raman Monitoring
The transition from periodic laboratory analysis to continuous Raman monitoring represents a meaningful shift in how refineries manage their alkylation processes. By providing real-time, accurate, and non-invasive measurements, HORIBA Process Instruments’ Raman analyzers enhance process control and efficiency in sulfuric acid monitoring.
Take the next step toward more efficient operations by contacting our specialists to learn how Raman monitoring can improve your sulfuric acid management.
Resources
At HORIBA Process Instruments, we are committed to more than just delivering cutting-edge Raman technology—we aim to empower you with the knowledge and tools to excel in your industry. Our Resources & Knowledge Base is your go-to hub for expert insights, technical documentation, and best practices to optimize your process monitoring and analysis.
Learn More
have questions?
contact our experts
Send us a message or give us a call at (801) 322-1235 and our team will be in touch shortly.
*indicates a required field.