TBPS Market & Trends

Di-tert-butyl Polysulfide (commonly referred to as TBPS, CAS No. 68937-96-2), an advanced high-performance organic sulfur compound, has become increasingly vital in the field of refinery hydroprocessing and in-situ catalyst pre-sulfiding.

This report focuses on the application status of TBPS in refinery hydrotreating units, a comprehensive technical comparison against traditional alternatives, and the development trends of localized supply in China.

1. Core Positioning of TBPS in Refinery Hydroprocessing Units

In refinery hydrotreating and hydrocracking units, freshly loaded catalyst metals are in an oxidized state (such as CoO-MoO3). These must be converted into active metal disulfide phases (such as Co-Mo-S active sites) through a sulfiding agent to exhibit catalytic activity.

For decades, dimethyl disulfide (DMDS) has been the traditional workhorse sulfiding agent in refineries. However, as safety and environmental regulations tighten and catalyst technology advances, TBPS is rapidly emerging as the premier green alternative for high-standard refinery start-ups due to its unique molecular structure and much milder physical properties.

2. Technical Comparison: TBPS vs. DMDS

When selecting a sulfiding agent, refineries primarily evaluate active sulfur content, decomposition temperature, safety risks, and the impact of byproducts on the recycle gas system. The following highlights the key differences between TBPS and traditional DMDS:

• Active Sulfur Content:
  • DMDS: Approximately 68%, offering an advantage in terms of unit dosage and initial purchasing cost.
  • TBPS: Approximately 54% – 55%.
• Flash Point and Safety Level:
  • TBPS: Flash point greater than 100°C, classified as a non-flammable liquid. It offers exceptional safety during transport, storage, and on-site handling, with no special fire-hazard restrictions.
  • DMDS: Flash point is only 16°C – 24°C, classified as a highly flammable liquid requiring rigorous storage and nitrogen-blanketed unloading protocols.
• Typical Decomposition Temperature:
  • TBPS: Decomposition begins at approximately 150°C. This low-temperature decomposition releases H2S early, preventing active metal oxides on the catalyst from being prematurely reduced to elemental metals by high-temperature hydrogen, thus locking in peak catalyst activity.
  • DMDS: Decomposition typically begins around 200°C.
• Odor Profile and Environmental Acceptance:
  • TBPS: Possesses a mild, diesel-like odor with no pungent stench, making it highly acceptable to refinery operators and completely eliminating odor-related community complaints.
  • DMDS: Emits an extremely strong, obnoxious garlic-like odor, which frequently triggers environmental complaints from refinery staff and nearby residential areas.
• Decomposition Byproducts:
  • TBPS: The primary byproduct is isobutane, which does not easily condense in the recycle gas loop and will not dilute hydrogen purity, maintaining stable system pressure.
  • DMDS: The primary byproduct is methane, which can dilute recycle gas hydrogen purity and increase purge gas discharge requirements.
• Start-up Efficiency:
  • TBPS: Supports rapid, low-temperature H2S breakthrough with mild reaction heat, significantly shortening the overall sulfiding schedule.
  • DMDS: The sulfiding process is highly exothermic, requiring strict temperature ramp control to prevent localized bed overheating (temperature runaway).

3. Global and Chinese TBPS Supply Landscape

3.1 International Market Status

Globally, high-purity TBPS production technology and mature supply chains have historically been concentrated in the hands of a few multinational specialty organic sulfur chemical giants. Due to their long-term presence in the market, these international producers hold a major share in global mid-to-high-end refineries. However, with extended international shipping lead times, rising geopolitical risks, and soaring logistics costs, their dominance is being challenged by rising domestic chemical producers in China.

3.2 Breakthrough by Chinese Producer — Junyuan Petroleum Group

Driven by the explosive growth of China’s integrated refining complexes and large-scale hydroprocessing units, domestic manufacturers are accelerating efforts to break foreign monopolies:

Junyuan Petroleum Group, a premier Chinese manufacturer specializing in high-purity hydrocarbon solvents and specialty additives, has developed and launched its proprietary, eco-friendly TBPS sulfiding agent.

Leveraging strict internal quality control and advanced chemical synthesis, Junyuan Petroleum Group ensures its TBPS meets exact industry specifications, including an active sulfur content of ~55%, low viscosity, and excellent thermal stability. The group’s domestic production secures a highly reliable, resilient supply chain for refineries in China and the broader Asia-Pacific region, while significantly lowering total procurement costs through a direct-from-factory supply model. Technical Data Sheets (TDS), Safety Data Sheets (SDS), and product samples are readily available through the group’s official sales channels.

4. Future Trend Outlook (Through 2035)

Trend 1: Strict Environmental and Safety Mandates Accelerating the Shift to Green Alternatives

As global environmental regulations and green refinery standards intensify, refineries have zero tolerance for H2S exposure risks and odor complaints. Over the next decade, the adoption rate of TBPS over DMDS in new and upgraded hydrocracking and heavy oil hydrotreating units is projected to grow at an annualized rate of over 10%.

Trend 2: Shorter Start-up Windows Driving the Need for High-Efficiency Sulfiding

For world-scale refineries, unplanned downtime or extended start-up windows carry massive financial penalties. The lower decomposition temperature of TBPS and its shorter H2S breakthrough time eliminate the risk of localized reactor runaway while slashing overall start-up hours, matching the industry’s demand for fast, safe, and efficient operations.

Trend 3: Deep Collaboration Between Local Supply Chains and Mega-Refineries

The massive scale of modern integrated refining projects requires reliable, high-volume chemical supply. Over the next 3 to 5 years, domestic producers led by Junyuan Petroleum Group will leverage their localized logistics and prompt technical support to build long-term, strategic supply partnerships with major state-owned and private mega-refineries, paving the way for complete import substitution.

5. Sales, Quotes, and Product Inquiry

As a leading manufacturer of high-purity TBPS sulfiding agents, Junyuan Petroleum Group is dedicated to providing refineries and catalyst service providers worldwide with premium products and comprehensive technical support.

For product pricing, customized technical solutions, TDS/SDS requests, or sample inquiries, please contact our sales team directly.

The Key to Efficient Sulfiding in Refinery Operations

In modern refining operations, maintaining optimal catalyst performance in hydrotreating and hydrocracking units is crucial. Among the many chemical tools available, Tertiary Butyl Polysulfide (TBPS) and Di-tert-Butyl Polysulfide (DTBPS) stand out as highly effective sulfiding agents, ensuring catalysts achieve full activity quickly and reliably.

What Are TBPS and DTBPS?

TBPS and DTBPS are organosulfur compounds specially formulated to introduce sulfur into refinery catalysts. They are liquid sulfiding agents designed for use in hydrotreating (HDT) and hydrocracking (HYC) processes, where rapid and controlled sulfiding is critical for:

• Activating fresh catalysts
• Maintaining catalyst activity during operation
• Minimizing downtime during catalyst replacement

Both TBPS and DTBPS are highly soluble in refinery feedstocks, providing uniform sulfur distribution and minimizing risk of localized over-sulfiding.

Why Choose TBPS and DTBPS?

Refinery operators prefer TBPS and DTBPS for several reasons:

1. Fast and Efficient Sulfiding
   These agents rapidly convert metal oxides in catalysts to their sulfide form, ensuring immediate catalyst activity upon start-up.
2. Enhanced Safety
   Compared to elemental sulfur or H₂S gas, TBPS/DTBPS are easier to handle, with lower risk of corrosion and toxic gas exposure.
3. Optimized Catalyst Life
   Proper sulfiding reduces catalyst deactivation, extending operational life and improving overall process efficiency.
4. Flexible Application
   Suitable for all types of hydrotreating and hydrocracking catalysts, TBPS and DTBPS are compatible with diverse refinery feedstocks.

Typical Applications in Refineries

• Hydrotreating Units: Sulfiding fresh Co-Mo or Ni-Mo catalysts before hydrogenation of sulfur-containing feedstocks.
• Hydrocracking Units: Ensuring proper sulfiding of Ni-W or Ni-Mo catalysts to maximize conversion and selectivity.
• Startup & Maintenance: TBPS/DTBPS can be used during catalyst replacement, regeneration, or maintenance cycles.

Handling and Storage

To maximize safety and efficacy:

• Store in cool, dry areas away from direct sunlight.
• Use compatible materials for tanks and transfer lines to avoid corrosion.
• Follow standard personal protective equipment (PPE) guidelines during handling.

Conclusion

For refinery operators seeking reliable and efficient sulfiding solutions, TBPS and DTBPS provide the ultimate combination of safety, speed, and performance. Their ability to activate catalysts rapidly and maintain operational stability makes them essential chemicals in modern hydrotreating and hydrocracking operations.

Abstract:
Sulfiding, a crucial process in the refining and petrochemical industries, enhances the performance and lifespan of catalysts used in various processes such as hydrotreating. This article delves into the background of catalyst sulfiding, the sulfiding process itself, its advantages, and the specialized services offered by Junyuan Petroleum Group. By using sulfiding agents like dimethyl disulfide (DMDS), catalysts are transformed into their active metal sulfide forms under controlled conditions. The resulting catalysts exhibit higher activity and selectivity, boosting process efficiency and extending catalyst life. Junyuan Petroleum Group stands out with its professional team, comprehensive technical support, and commitment to safety and environmental protection. The application of sulfiding services spans multiple refining and petrochemical processes, highlighting its importance in the industry.

Keywords: Sulfiding services, catalysts, refining industry, petrochemical industry, dimethyl disulfide (DMDS), catalyst performance, process efficiency, safety, environmental protection.

Article:

Sulfiding Services in Refining and Petrochemical Industries

In the refining and petrochemical industries, catalyst sulfiding plays a pivotal role in achieving optimal catalyst performance. This process is particularly significant for catalysts such as those used in hydrotreating, where they must undergo sulfiding to unlock their full potential.

1. Background of Catalyst Sulfiding

Catalyst sulfiding involves treating catalysts with sulfur compounds to convert them into active metal sulfides. This transformation typically occurs before the catalyst is put into service. Sulfiding agents commonly used include dimethyl disulfide (DMDS) and other organic sulfur compounds. These agents are chosen for their effectiveness in generating the necessary sulfur species under the process conditions.

2. The Sulfiding Process

The sulfiding reaction involves the decomposition of the sulfiding agent at high temperatures, releasing hydrogen sulfide (H₂S). This hydrogen sulfide then reacts with metal oxides in the catalyst, forming active metal sulfides. The sulfiding process is carried out under specific temperature, pressure, and hydrogen conditions to ensure complete sulfidation of the catalyst.

3. Advantages of Sulfiding Services

Sulfided catalysts offer several benefits. Firstly, they exhibit higher activity and selectivity, leading to improved process efficiency in refining and petrochemical operations. Secondly, proper sulfiding extends the catalyst’s lifespan, reducing the frequency of replacements and associated costs. Lastly, safety is paramount in sulfiding processes, and professional service providers ensure that risks such as hydrogen sulfide leaks are mitigated.

4. Junyuan Petroleum Group’s Sulfiding Services

Junyuan Petroleum Group stands out in the field of sulfiding services. The company boasts an experienced team capable of delivering customized sulfiding solutions to meet clients’ specific needs. From sulfiding agent selection to process optimization, Junyuan provides comprehensive technical support. Moreover, the company emphasizes safety and environmental protection, ensuring that all sulfiding operations comply with relevant regulations and standards.

5. Application Areas

Sulfiding services are widely applicable in various refining and petrochemical processes. In the refining industry, they are crucial for processes such as hydrotreating, hydrocracking, and hydrodesulfurization. In the petrochemical sector, sulfided catalysts are essential for the production of olefins, aromatics, and other petrochemical products.

6. Conclusion

In conclusion, sulfiding services are an integral part of the refining and petrochemical industries, significantly enhancing catalyst performance and lifespan. Junyuan Petroleum Group, with its professional expertise and commitment to safety and environmental protection, helps clients achieve efficient and safe sulfiding processes. By leveraging advanced sulfiding techniques and comprehensive support, the company contributes to the ongoing improvement and sustainability of refining and petrochemical operations.