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Title: Asphaltene adsorption onto formation rock: An approach to asphaltene formation damage prevention

Journal Article · · SPE Production and Facilities
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2118/30109-PA· OSTI ID:276200
; ;  [1]; ;  [2]
  1. Eniricerche SpA, Milan (Italy)
  2. Agip SpA, Milan (Italy)

In this paper, through a comparative study on static vs. dynamic adsorption of asphaltene onto formation rock, the authors report how, for the particular asphaltene/formation rock system considered, the dynamic asphaltene adsorption onto formation rock is a continuous phenomenon by which the quantity of adsorbed asphaltene increases continuously. In their opinion, this rather remarkable adsorption behavior may contribute to asphaltene formation damage. In the hypothesis that prevention may represent a more economical approach than removal, they also report a possible prevention approach based on formation rock treatment by means of specific chemicals more apt than asphaltenes to be adsorbed onto rock. As a preliminary demonstration, with the aim of assessing qualitatively the potential of their approach, they have pretreated the rock with commercially available asphaltene dispersant and flocculation inhibitors. Although the chosen additives are not commercialized on the basis of their specific adsorption feature, a modest prevention effect has been found. Experimental set-ups and procedures used as a base for a test to rank chemicals with respect to their asphaltene adsorption inhibitive effects are also reported.

Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
OSTI ID:
276200
Journal Information:
SPE Production and Facilities, Vol. 11, Issue 3; Other Information: PBD: Aug 1996
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English