Rheological behavior of shear degradable oils: Kinetic and equilibrium properties

Abstract

Abstract An investigation of the non‐Newtonian, time dependent, flow properties of various crude oils at or below their pour points is reported. Experimental observations of material response under various shear and stress conditions provide a basis for the development of a kinetic and rheological model which quantitatively describes the shear degradation and equilibrium behavior exhibited by these materials. Preliminary data on the effects of thermal history and aging are also reported, showing the relative importance of these factors to the rheological properties.