Application of Local Materials for Treatment of Waxy Crude in Some Niger Delta Fields

Abstract

It has been reported that 70% of Nigerian Oilfields are affected by wax formation issues which cause problems in flow of crude oil. Unfortunately, there are key knowledge gaps that make it difficult to predict and manage these issues, resulting in negative impact on production, revenue and energy security. To proffer solution to this problem, a study was conducted to investigate the crystallization behavior of waxy crude oil and the effectiveness of various wax inhibitors in mitigating wax related issues. The study analyzed crude oil samples from identified waxy wells in Niger Delta Oilfields using standard methods. This involved characterization of the crude oil through API Gravity measurement, SARA Analysis, Cloud and Pour Point determination, wax content measurement, viscosity/temperature profiling and compositional analysis. The work explored methods for treating wax crude oil, including extraction of orange peel oil and soya bean husk. In order to ensure accuracy and reliability of the results, the study took rigorous experimental precautions. The efficacy of various wax inhibitors including orange peel oil and soya bean husk oil was evaluated through performance testing on crude oil samples at different concentrations. The findings obtained from this study contribute to the optimization of wax inhibition strategies and offers practical solutions for mitigating wax depositional issues in petroleum production and transportation systems