Influence of Temperature and Pressure on Asphaltene Flocculation

TLDR

A thermodynamic liquid model describes how asphalt and asphaltenes in reservoir crudes behave under changes in pressure, temperature, or composition. The model uses asphaltene solubility data from titration experiments on tank oil to predict field conditions that trigger asphalt or asphaltene precipitation. High‑pressure flocculation experiments confirm the model’s validity and show it works well when asphaltenes are associated with resins.

Abstract

Abstract A thermodynamic liquid model has been developed to describe the behavior of asphalt and asphaltenes in reservoir crudes upon changes in pressure, temperature, or composition. Asphaltene solubility properties used as input to the model may be obtained from titration experiments on tank oil. High-pressure flocculation experiments confirm the potential of the model. The model appears to be well applicable to conditions at which asphaltenes are associated with resins. The model may be used to identify field conditions where asphalt or asphaltene precipitation will occur.