Search for a command to run...
Abstract The current generation of LDHI-AA (low-dosage hydrate inhibitor anti-agglomerant) often relies on surfactant chemistry based on quaternary ammonium compounds, ethoxylated amines and similar compounds. However, environmental persistence and potential toxicity of these compounds are significant concerns, especially due to potential bioaccumulation, aqua-toxicity and poor biodegradation causing a negative impact on aquatic organisms. This study introduces a novel, environmentally acceptable LDHI-AA that meets environmental criteria under OSPAR agreement. A consolidated laboratory performance study on a wide range of crude oils and test system conditions is presented. Additionally, the outline for upcoming field trials that aim to validate the LDHI-AA's effectiveness as a sustainable alternative to conventional thermodynamic hydrate inhibitors (THIs) is also described. Successful deployment of the sustainable LDHI-AA chemistry signifies a breakthrough in the field, as it provides a safer option for managing hydrate-related flow assurance challenges. Performance testing of the sustainable LDHI-AA was conducted through a series of controlled laboratory and simulated field tests. Laboratory testing included high-pressure rocking cell, autoclave and flow loop tests each designed to replicate hydrate formation conditions and assess the LDHI-AA's effectiveness. Key conditions in these tests included variables such as sub-cooling, salinity, pH, gas composition, and water cut, ensuring that testing reflected a broad range of operational scenarios. Three major project conditions were simulated to comprehensively validate product performance across varying envelope conditions. Furthermore, a top-side field test validated the LDHI-AA's chemical neutrality and confirmed no interference with the phase separation process, critical for the operational performance of the asset. A subsea performance trial was successfully conducted and will be reported in a future publication Laboratory studies demonstrate effectiveness of this environmentally friendly anti-agglomerant in mitigating hydrate blockages across a broad range of system conditions. The minimum effective concentration was determined in the rocking cell tests to be around 2% of LDHI-AA by volume of water (bvw). The performance of the product in a flow loop system conducted at 40% water cut, and 17ºC sub-cooling was observed to be 1% bvw treatment at 70 bar to a 3% bvw treatment at 100 bar system pressure. For subsea treatment scope, compatibility assessment with a corrosion inhibitor revealed that the LDHI-AA's performance remained unaffected. Successful top-side and subsequent subsea trials (not reported here) further confirmed the LDHI-AA's field performance. The viability of utilizing LDHI-AA in several tested applications was considered and addressed utilizing a range of performance testing, environmental properties, and several other assessments such as compatibility with other chemicals, materials, and product stability. This study reinforces the importance of the newly developed LDHI-AA as an environmentally compliant alternative for long-term hydrate risk management.