METKA (Sunoco, Inc.) Sunoco has experienced significant shortages of KOH in both our northeast and mid-continent refinery complexes. This appears to be a universal issue. In addition, a primary supplier to the northeast claimed force majeure earlier this year. We do have some concern over this issue since both the HF alky and some LPG treating units are impacted. We’re working to identify and pursue alternatives, which include alternate suppliers, as well as application of liquid sodium hydroxide and mole sieves in the treatment applications. We did consider sodium hydroxide for use at the HF alky, but the solubility of the sodium fluoride limits starting strength that results in equipment and logistics limitations, so that was deemed as not feasible for us. 

Reclaiming or regeneration of spent KOH is also being evaluated. If you do pursue this type of option, you should take a look at your storage and handling facilities and make sure that you don’t have any industrial hygiene concerns pertaining to the handling of the spent and return KOH.