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A novel approach based on RGB image analysis for the investigation of scale formation and performance of inhibitors under flow conditions

2023; Elsevier BV; Volume: 226; Linguagem: Inglês

10.1016/j.geoen.2023.211728

2949-8910

Fabrício Venâncio, Ronald Wbeimar Pacheco Ortiz, Tatiana S.L. Maravilha, Vinicius Ottonio O. Gonçalves, F. F. Rosário, Rosane Alves Fontes, Tiago C. Freitas, Thiago Geraldo da Silva, Vinícius Kartnaller, João Cajaiba,

Minerals Flotation and Separation Techniques

Scale is one of the main flow assurance issues in oil and gas production because reduces productivity or even stops production. The evaluation of scale formation and performance of inhibitors under flow conditions is essential for managing this problem. A conventional method for this evaluation is the tube-blocking test performed in a dynamic scale loop (DSL) system monitoring the differential pressure caused by the scale formation. However, this system does not provide information to understand the precipitation process prior to scaling and the inhibition mechanisms. This work presents a novel approach based on RGB (red, green, and blue) image analysis for the investigation of scale formation and performance of inhibitors under flow conditions. This approach uses a viewing cell coupled to the output of a DSL that allows detecting the inorganic salt precipitation and formation of its deposits under flow conditions via RGB image analysis. Several calcium carbonate scale experiments were conducted by mixing different concentrations of bicarbonate ions (1,000–4,000 mg L−1) with calcium ions (4,000 mg L−1) and controlling the temperature (80 °C), flow rate (10.0 mL min−1), ionic strength (19,980 and 40,000 mg L−1 of Cl−), and pH (6.8). The results via RGB image analysis agreed with those provided by the differential pressure, including the evaluation of the performance and minimum inhibitory concentration of three chemicals: EDTA and two commercial inhibitors. This novel approach not only allows the determination of the scale formation time as the DSL but also allows the study of crystallization and crystals growth. Furthermore, it provides information helpful to better understanding the inhibition mechanisms.