Abstract: A process for the removal of trace metals from a hydrocarbon stream includes contacting the hydrocarbon stream with an absorbent material comprising antimony pentoxide supported on an absorbent substrate. The hydrocarbon product is then withdrawn from the absorbent material to provide a purified product in which 99.5 wt. % of the trace metal has been removed. Preparation of the antimony pentoxide-promoted absorbent entails treating a particulate porous substrate with an aqueous solution of antimony pentoxide. The absorbent substrate has an average particle size within the range of 1-5 mm and an average pore volume within the range of 0.7-0.85 cubic centimeters per gram. At least 80% of the surface area of the support is contained within the internal pore volume of the absorbent. The absorbent support is contacted with the antimony pentoxide solution.