new low environmental impact asphaltene inhibitors for the norwegian sector

Dr Jack Dunlop

JD Horizons Limited, 9 Broadacre Place, Alderley Edge, Cheshire UK  SK9 7GR

A new range of asphaltene inhibitors for oil production operations was launched in 2003. This product range is characterized by low toxicity products containing inherently biodegradable and highly oil soluble (high log Po/w) polymers, formulated in a high flash point aromatic solvent. Although rated as low environmental impact for the offshore oil industry, in general, these products have been assigned a red category by the Norwegian regulatory authorities.

This paper describes a short term project to develop a product alternative with a more acceptable environmental profile for the Norwegian market. In particular, the project considers manufacturing implications for alternative solvents and additional performance, physical property and environmental characterisation of this new product line extension.