Publication Date:
2013-06-05
Description:
Time-dependent isochoric formation of methane hydrate was investigated in the presence of low-dose poly(ethylene oxides) (PEOs). The effect of different molecular weights of PEO on methane hydrate nucleation time and storage capacity was studied and compared. Kinetic measurements revealed a dual effect of PEO, including inhibition and stabilization effects, on methane hydrate formation. The nature and type of the effect arises from the difference in molecular weights and concentration ranges of PEOs. These parameters directly affect the nucleation time and storage capacity of methane hydrate. Generally, in comparison with pure water, PEO improved the storage capacity of methane hydrate. PEO (1000 kD) at a concentration of 0.5 wt % exhibits a significant kinetic inhibitory performance. However, it was an efficient low-dosage hydrate stabilizer at a concentration of 0.25 wt %, along with producing gas-rich methane hydrate suitable for gas fuel storage and transportation. In the oil and natural gas industry, gas hydrates appear as a problem in drilling, production, and flow assurance processes. Dual effects of poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO), including inhibition and stabilization, on time-dependent isochoric methane hydrate formation are analyzed by kinetic measurements.
Print ISSN:
0930-7516
Electronic ISSN:
1521-4125
Topics:
Chemistry and Pharmacology
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Process Engineering, Biotechnology, Nutrition Technology
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