Inhibiting Gas Hydration Using Surfactant

Gas hydrates are clathrates that will form in the presence of water and small hydrocarbons at elevated pressure usually higher than 600 psia and in condition of lower temperatures (0oC – 15oC). The structure of the gas hydrates is crystalline and they pose a big problem to the oil and gas industry as they can result in loss of production. Their presences in pipelines have been a serious economic concern especially they can cause serious operation and safety problem. Anti-Agglomerants (AAs) are injected and the purpose is to prevent the agglomeration and deposition of hydrate crystals such that transportable hydrate slurry is formed. Surfactants will be used and it is designed to attack hydrate surfaces and will disrupt the hydrate growth process. The surfactants are also known to stabilize water in oil emulsions. The equipment that I will use to determine the most effective concentration of the surfactant to inhibit the gas hydrates for my project is Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). At concentrations above 1 wt % or between 0.25 – 0.5 wt % of the aqueous phase, these chemicals showed some positive effects. Other than that, compared to conventional method which is Thermodynamic Hydrate Inhibitors (THIs), AAs is used in low concentration. Thus, it can lead to very substantial cost savings and environmental friendly product.