ASPHALTENE INHIBITOR SELECTION: THEORY AND PRACTICE

Abstract: The precipitation and deposition of asphaltene in oil producing zone and production systems has caused several problems. Reservoir damage, reduction of well productivity and clogging of the tubing and production facilities are some of its consequences. Their significance economic impact on the reservoir has made it necessary to look for a ways to minimize and remove the asphaltene precipitation and deposition wherever occurred. To minimize the asphaltene precipitation and deposition, different inhibitors are normally applied in situ and in production systems.
This paper discusses and provides a comprehensive review of the criteria and selection of the asphaltene inhibitor, successful inhibitors, proposed technique to minimize the asphaltene using inhibitors and review of the case studies where the inhibitors are successfully applied to minimize the asphaltene precipitation. Since this paper contains all the necessary information related to application of asphaltene inhibitor, therefore this paper can be used as a reference for the successful application of the inhibitors.
Application of asphaltene inhibitors will not only enhance the reservoir productivity but it will also reduce the cost associated with the consequences of the asphaltene precipitation and deposition.
KEYWORDS: Asphaltene, Asphaltene Inhibitor, Asphaltene Precipitation, Asphaltene Deposition.