Deposition Inhibition of Hydrate Inhibitors and Wax Inhibitors in Waxy Oil–Gas–Water Multiphase System: Progress, Mechanism, and Compatibility
Daren Fu, Biao Wang, Shixin Mao, Jiayu Zou, Changrui Deng, Siyan Liu, Zhi Li, Bei Liu, Qiang Wei, Guangjin Chen, Xuqiang Guo
Abstract
During the transportation of oil and gas, the coexistence of wax crystals and natural gas hydrates is becoming an increasingly prominent problem. The deposition of these solids is likely to result in the pipeline blockage, which adversely affects the flow efficiency and safety of oil and gas. To address this issue, researchers have proposed jointly adding wax inhibitors and hydrate inhibitors to improve flow assurance. However, due to the significant differences in the mechanisms of various inhibitors, the interaction effects among wax inhibitors, hydrate inhibitors, wax crystals, and hydrates may potentially undermine the inhibitory efficacy. To better clarify this issue, this paper first provides a detailed elaboration on the types, mechanisms, and interaction relationships of various inhibitors, including kinetic inhibitors of gas hydrates, thermodynamic inhibitors of gas hydrates, antiagglomerates, wax dispersants, and pour point depressants. Subsequently, based on previous studies, the interaction process of hydrate inhibitors, wax inhibitors, hydrates, and wax crystals in waxy oil–gas–water multiphase systems is reviewed. Finally, this paper puts forward possible interaction mechanisms between wax inhibitors and hydrate inhibitors, providing useful references for researchers in this field.