RESEARCH INTO COMPOSITIONS FOR REMOVING ASPHALTPARAFFIN DEPOSITS

Abstract

This article presents the results of laboratory studies on the effectiveness of compositions
developed to remove asphalt-resin-paraffin deposits (ARPD), which form during oil production and
transportation. ARPDs are solid organomineral deposits consisting mainly of paraffins, asphaltenes,
resins, and mechanical impurities. They are deposited on the internal surfaces of oilfield equipment,
reducing productivity and causing operational complications. This issue is particularly pertinent in fields
in the Mangystau region, where the oil has a high paraffin content. As part of the study, the composition
of paraffin-type ASPOs selected from different parts of the field was investigated. Based on the obtained
data, hydrocarbon-based compositions (pentane-hexane fraction) were developed, incorporating non-ionic
and anionic surfactants (OP-10 and Sulfonol) to provide a synergistic dissolution and dispersion effect.
Laboratory studies conducted at temperatures of 25 °C and 60 °C revealed that temperature significantly
impacts the rate and depth of ARPD dissolution. Compositions containing more than 6 % surfactants are
up to 100 % effective at removing and dissolving ARPDs. At lower temperatures (25 °C), the efficiency
of ARPD removal exceeds 98 %, making the compositions suitable for use in conditions of limited or no
thermal exposure. The proposed compositions are highly efficient at destroying and removing solid
deposits in a short time and contribute to reducing operating costs and increasing the reliability of oilfield
equipment.