Study of microcrystalline and macrocrystalline structure based on Cambay basin crude oils

Production of wax associated light crude is quite difficult as the pressure drops from the reservoir to production facility are quite large. This often leads to the precipitation and deposition of common organic solids (wax). These solids may deposit on surfaces, collect in low-energy regions or increase the effective viscosity of the flowing fluid. The two types of wax crystal studied which are microcrystalline and macro crystalline waxes. Microcrystalline waxes (naphthene or isoparaffinic) are produced by de-oiling of petroleum. Macrocrystalline waxes (Paraffins) consists of long straight chain saturated hydrocarbons (linear alkanes). Proper knowledge of wax crystal type would help in understanding fluid flow dynamics and simulate it accordingly. It also helps in prevent blockage and select an effective wax inhibitor in the treatment of wax precipitation and deposition. Therefore, its necessary to analyze the behavior and property of waxy crude. The current study determines different physical & microscopic properties along with the chemical composition of the crude sample obtained from Cambay Basin. Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) is used to identify chemical component with its composition. The behavior of the crudes is studied in static and dynamic conditions with different temperatures and shear rates. The crude oil shows a decrease in viscosity with increasing temperature and shear rate. The paperwork also investigates the use of Cross-Polarized Microscopy (CPM) to determine whether crude oil shows microcrystalline or macrocrystalline wax behavior.