Affiliation:
1. Department of Petroleum Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Petronas, Seri Iskandar 32610, Perak, Malaysia
2. College of Engineering Architecture and Technology, Palawan State University, Puerto Princesa 5300, Palawan, Philippines
Abstract
High molecular weight paraffin/wax precipitates in the solution of crude oil when the surrounding temperature falls below the wax appearance temperature, which causes the problem of wax deposition in pipelines. To enhance the rheology of the crude oil and lessen wax deposition, pour point depressants (PPDs) and flow enhancers were utilized. These substances change the wax crystals’ morphology, reducing crystal interlocking and preventing wax agglomeration from facilitating wax dispersion. However, recent research prompted a further investigation to improve the performance of conventional polymeric PPD and to address wax accumulation in a safe and environmentally responsible way. This is because of their poor performance at high shearing, expensive preparations, limited biodegradability, and toxicity. The primary objective of this study is to provide a thorough summary of current studies on the use of seed oil extracts rich in unsaturated fatty acids as an alternative for polymeric PPD. Important studies on the use of nanoparticles to improve the performance of conventional PPD, as well as strategies put into place to overcome issues with nanoparticle application, are also highlighted. Finally, an outlook of potential research ideas to develop pour point depressants is provided.
Funder
the Malaysian Ministry of Higher Education
Subject
Energy (miscellaneous),Energy Engineering and Power Technology,Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment,Electrical and Electronic Engineering,Control and Optimization,Engineering (miscellaneous),Building and Construction
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