Abstract: This application discloses a composition for and a method of using the composition to disperse hydrocarbon based components into a liquid carrier. The composition is comprised of a lower alkyl ester of a fixed oil, such as a modified vegetable oil, in combination with at least one other compound which enhances the ability of the ester to form an aqueous emulsion which can separate and which can alter the wetting character of the ester. The method comprises contacting a material comprised of hydrocarbon based components with an effective amount of composition for a time and a temperature sufficient to disperse the material into a liquid carrier.

Abstract: An aqueous composition containing an amine oxide surfactant, and preferably containing an amine oxide surfactant and enzymes, is added to crude oil, preferably by injecting the composition into the oil well, or adding the composition to pipelines or tankage containing the oil. An acid can also be used in conjunction with the composition. The composition acts to remove hydrocarbon contamination, from the well bore and mechanical components and further serves to break up the oil/water/sludge emulsion being delivered from the well head to facilitate separation of the oil. When used with an acid, the composition increases the effectiveness of the acid in removing inorganic contamination.

Abstract: A method of removing hazardous sulfur compounds, such as hydrogen sulfide, mercaptans and sulfur oxides, from a fluid stream comprising contacting the fluid stream with an aqueous composition comprised of a tertiary amine oxide. The amine oxide reacts with the hazardous sulfur compounds to eliminate the compounds from the fluid stream.

Abstract: A method of removing hazardous sulfur compounds, such as hydrogen sulfide and sulfur dioxide, from sour crude oil and sour natural gas. An aqueous composition of an amine oxide surfactant, and preferably a mixture of an amine oxide surfactant and enzymes, is mixed with the sour crude oil or sour natural gas. The surfactant reacts with the hazardous sulfur compounds to eliminate the evolution of the compounds from the crude oil or gas and the enzymes act to catalyze the reaction.