Examining the Potential for Corrosion Inhibitor and Scale Inhibitor Compatibility in a Multifunctional Squeeze Strategy

Abstract

Abstract The molecular requirements and the fundamental physico-chemical mechanisms associated with inhibition of both scale and corrosion are reviewed establishing the general difficulties associated with the provision of single component, dual function agents. Molecular groups, steric effects, ion binding, conformational needs, ionisation and molecular weight are viewed theoretically to describe molecular demands on performance. An array of commercially available scale and corrosion inhibitors have been examined for their bulk and low concentration solution compatibility prior to the generation of detailed phase behaviour maps to elucidate realms of binary component coexistence. A compatible pair of inhibitor agents were selected for dynamic coreflood retention and release investigations, at elevated temperatures, to probe likely squeeze characteristics. Both single component and dual component formulations in adsorption only and precipitation modes were studied in detail. Desorption curves were successfully modelled with non-equilibrium models to help quantify operational mechanisms and identify future directions.