(713g) Structure-Property Relationships for the Use of Novel Amphiphilic Polyacrylates to Break Water-in-Crude-Oil Emulsions

Water-in-oil emulsions stabilized by surface-active compounds found in crude oil (including natural surfactants and fine mineral particles) are a persistent challenge during the production, transportation, and refining of crude oil products. For example, reduction of chlorine and sediment via dewatering by addition of a chemical additive is desirable to reduce corrosion and scaling issues that limit downstream upgrading processes. In this work we synthesize and characterize a new class of amphiphilic polyacrylates using high-throughput capabilities and a design of experiments methodology and relate the polymer composition to interfacial properties that govern emulsion stability. The hydrophobic monomers included butyl acrylate, 2-ethylhexl acrylate, and ethyl acrylate, and the hydrophilic monomers included poly(ethylene glycol) methacrylate, poly(propylene glycol) methacrylate, and poly(ethylene glycol) methacrylate methyl ether. The results show that the dewatering effectiveness of these polyacrylates is primarily influenced by their hydrophobicity, regardless of their specific functionalities. These materials perform similarly to polyol block copolymer demulsifiers and have the potential for additional functions in the oil and gas field due to the robustness and flexibility of acrylic chemistry.