Geothermal Sulfur, Marketing Strategies

Abstract

Sulfur is a necessary raw material of numerous industrial and agricultural products. Global projections suggest an annual 3.4% rise in elemental sulfur consumption over the next 10-15 years. The quality of sulfur varies with geography (Texas Bright/Louisiana Dark) and production techniques (hydrogen sulfide abatement). Sources of elemental sulfur at the Geysers in northern California are products of hydrogen sulfide abatement and constitute a significant waster stream volume that must be disposed typically by land filing at certified hazardous waste disposal sites. Recently enacted environmental legislation (land ban) coupled with waste minimization efforts in California have prompted the exploration of alternatives to land disposal for these waster streams. There are some variations in sulfur production rates and composition however, a market interest has currently been expressed. The preferred regulatory hierarchy of alternatives in California (source reduction, recycling and treatment) certainly affect current practices, marketing strategies for recycling and future opportunities within the complex environmental regulatory framework.