Wellbore Surface Conditioning for Inhibition of Asphaltene Adsorption

Abstract

Asphaltene adsorption on reservoir rocks, particularly those near the wellbore, has been debated for decades, but a long-term solution is still difficult. This is partially because research into the chemistry of asphaltene is still ongoing, as is the creation of solutions that depend on the structural makeup of asphaltene. Moreover, several interrelated elements have an impact on asphaltene behavior, making it challenging to design a long-lasting solution. This study makes an effort to reduce asphaltene adsorption on carbonate rock samples by applying chelating agents to the surface. To assess the viability of the suggested remedy, adsorption studies, surface energy, and density functional theory calculations were performed. Results show that asphaltene adsorption on chelating agent-treated carbonate surfaces can be prevented or reduced. The best chelating agent concentration must be established, though. Findings also indicated that the effectiveness of the chelating agent in preventing asphaltene adsorption increased with the number of carboxylic acid groups present in its structure. Furthermore, van der Waals interactions and hydrogen bond formation govern the chelation of Ca2+ from the carbonate surface. This offers information that is only now being reported here. Further findings confirmed the viability of asphaltene adsorption mitigation using fluids containing carboxylic acids. Also, it is necessary to investigate additional fluids that have the potential to coat the surface.