Solid Surfactant Stick for Gas Well Deliquification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solid surfactant formulations for oilfield applications, such as soap sticks, face limitations in performance due to compatibility issues, physical stability, and biodegradability, particularly in high-temperature conditions and the presence of dissolved electrolytes, which restrict their flexibility and effectiveness in gas well deliquification and other oilfield applications.
Innovation Solution
A solid formulation comprising a high active particulate surfactant, such as amphoteric surfactants like lauramidopropyl betaine, dispersed in a wax base with a polymeric dispersant to maintain homogeneity and prevent separation, allowing for a wide range of formulation ingredients and shapes to accommodate different well constructions and operational requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If nonionic surfactants with waxy consistency and high melting point are used in solid formulations, then physical stability and stick softening resistance are improved, but biodegradability and aquatic toxicity worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical parameters of the surfactant from conventional nonionic waxy surfactants to N-acyl amino acid surfactants with specific molecular structures (Formula I and II), achieving both physical stability and improved biodegradability through molecular design
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite solid formulation system combining N-acyl amino acid surfactants with specific physical properties (melting point 40-80°C, specific gravity 0.8-1.2) and compatible ingredients, forming a new material system that resolves the contradiction between stability and biodegradability
2Ease of operation
If liquid formulations are used for foamassisted lift, then ease of injection and controlled application are improved, but delivery to affected region and intimate mixing worsen in highly deviated wells
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes phase transition by providing the surfactant in solid stick form that melts at controlled temperatures (40-80°C), allowing the solid formulation to be delivered to the well and then transition to liquid state for effective foam generation and mixing in the reservoir
Solution Approach 2:
The solid stick formulation is designed as a disposable delivery system that is injected into the well, melts, releases the surfactant, and is subsequently discarded, eliminating the need for complex injection equipment and ensuring complete delivery to the target zone
3Stability of the object's composition
If solid formulations with high melting point surfactants are used, then resistance to softening during storage is improved, but formulation flexibility and ingredient compatibility worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the melting point parameter to a specific range (40-80°C) that balances storage stability with formulation flexibility, allowing the surfactant to remain solid during storage but melt and mix effectively with other ingredients during application
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different properties to different components of the formulation, with the N-acyl amino acid surfactant providing the core functionality and physical stability, while allowing other ingredients to be added in controlled amounts (0.1-10% w/w) to enhance specific properties without compromising overall formulation flexibility
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional surfactants are used in solid formulations, then cost effectiveness is improved, but performance in high electrolyte conditions and thermal stability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent develops a composite surfactant system based on N-acyl amino acids with specific molecular structures that inherently provide thermal stability and electrolyte resistance, creating a new material that maintains cost effectiveness while improving performance in harsh oilfield conditions
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a consistent and effective delivery of surfactants, enhancing foam stability and liquid unloading performance, even in challenging water qualities and high condensate levels, while being compatible with various ingredients and adaptable for various oilfield applications, including controlled release of additives.
Implementation Method 1
a dispersant, which generally allows a dispersion of at least the surfactant in the solid formulation, and in particular a dispersion of the surfactant in the binding agent
Implementation Method 2
enhancing foam stability and liquid unloading performance
Implementation Method 3
The melting point of the stick should be high enough to withstand disintegration (contact with liquid aerosols) until it reaches the flooded zones
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a solid formulation of soap stick type comprising a primary surfactant, at least one binding agent and at least one dispersant that may especially be an amphoteric surfactant, optionally with additives. The present invention also relates to uses of said formulation, especially for oilfield applications, e.g. for gas well deliquification applications.