(125c) Nano-Particle Based Waxs Inhibitors for Environmentally Friendly Pour Point Depressing in Waxy Crude

Crystallization of paraffin waxes complicates the low temperature flow properties of waxy crudes, generating problems in pipeline transportation. An efficient solution to this problem is using pour-point depressants (PPD), such as polymeric additives, altering the crystallization of the paraffin waxes and hence the rheological properties since these are highly dependent on the paraffin crystal morphology. Recently the combination of nano-materials with traditional polymeric PPDs have shown promise [1, 2].

This work combines inert nano-particles with polymeric PPDs to greatly enhance the effectiveness of these additives on a model waxy crude system. The effectiveness and mode of operation of these hybrid nano-particles are discussed, discussing the effect of polymer coverage of the nano-particles, and how the environmental difference in using hybrid nano-particles in comparison to neat chemicals.

1.            Yang, F., et al., Hydrophilic Nanoparticles Facilitate Wax Inhibition. Energy & Fuels, 2015. 29(3): p. 1368-1374.

2.            Yang, F., et al., Polymeric Wax Inhibitors and Pour Point Depressants for Waxy Crude Oils: A Critical Review. Journal of Dispersion Science and Technology, 2015. 36(2): p. 213-225.