Deep desulfurization of extensively hydrodesulfurized middle distillate oil by Rhodococcus sp. strain ECRD-1

Article Abstract:

Rhodococcus sp. strain ECRD-1 can desulfurize petroleum fuel that still contains dibenzothiophene compounds despite extensive hydrodesulfurization. These compounds sterically hinder the desulfurization process but the bacterium is capable of desulfurizing them.

Microbial metabolism

Sulfur-specific microbial desulfurization of sterically hindered analogs of dibenzothiophene

Article Abstract:

Gram positive Arthrobacter species, ECRD-1, performs desulfurization of organic sulfur compounds such as dibenzothiophene and other sterically hindered analogs in a sulfur-selective manner. The desulfurization pathway seems to not involve hydrocarbon degradation and probably does not reduce the fuel value of the desulfurized compound. The desulfurization of 4,6-diethyldibenzothiophene (4,6-DEDBT) produces 4,6-DEDBT sulfone as the intermediate and 2-hydroxy-3,3'-diethylbiphenyl as the sulfur-free end product.

Organosulfur compounds, Organic sulfur compounds

Microbial desulfurization of a crude oil middle-distillate fraction: analysis of the extent of sulfur removal and the effect of removal on remaining sulfur

Article Abstract:

The ability of Rhodococcus sp. strain ECRD-1 to desulfurize a middle-distillate fraction of crude oil has been studied as well as the effect of desulfurization on the remaining sulfur. Gas chromatography, flame ionization and sulfur chemiluminescence detection analyses were used to asses the bacteria's effect on the hydrocarbon and sulfur content of crude oil. Results indicate that as much as 30% of the total sulfur in the middle distillate cut was removed by ECRD-1. The remaining sulfur was found to be in oxidized form.

Methods, Evaluation, Sulfur, Sulfur bacteria