Critical analysis of different techniques used to screen asphaltene stability in crude oils

Abstract

Sustainable hydrocarbon production throughout the oil field life is the major aim of every Petroleum Exploration and Production (E&P) company. This goal may become difficult or sometimes nearly impossible to achieve due to technical and economical constraints and challenges. Among various flow assurance problems, precipitation and subsequent deposition of asphaltene in reservoir and surface and subsurface facilities are considered as the major issue. The asphaltene problem not only causes revenue loss due to interruptions in crude oil production but may also cost operating companies expensive treatments. Asphaltene deposition problems can be handled properly and cheaply by conducting the screening of asphaltene stability in crude oils. This effective monitoring may help in predicting the stability accurately and provide an opportunity to plan and implement preventive measures before asphaltene precipitation starts. Over the past few years, different investigators developed new methods through which screening of asphaltene stability in dead and live crude oils can be done. However, there is no detailed study is conducted to review the available techniques for their reliability and accuracy issues. In this research study, a detailed analysis of different dead and live oil screening techniques is carried out. Limitations, risks and advantages involved in using each technique are discussed and a comparison between live and dead oil screening techniques is made. This research study will facilitate Petroleum companies to select best possible screening technique available for monitoring asphaltene stability in crude oils for reducing the asphaltene deposition risk in oil fields.