Mapping Wall Deposition Trends of Gas Hydrates: II. Gas–Oil–Water–Hydrate Systems

Marques DC, Bassani CL, Kakitani C, Marcelino Neto MA, Sum AK, Morales RE (2026)

Publication Type: Journal article

Publication year: 2026

Journal

Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research American Chemical Society (ACS)

Book Volume: 65

Pages Range: 9738-9746

Journal Issue: 18

DOI: 10.1021/acs.iecr.5c05404

Abstract

Gas hydrates─crystalline compounds of water and gas molecules─can block oil and gas flow lines, but how blockages form is not fully understood. This study shows that water bridge formation is the main mechanism causing hydrate particles to stick together forming agglomerates or to stick to pipe walls forming deposits. Two types of water bridges were identified, namely: (1) gas–water–wall bridges form in water-dominant systems with gas-wetted walls, leading to deposits on pipe surfaces; and (2) particle–oil–water bridges form in oil-dominant systems when water permeates from pores inside hydrate particles to their outer surface, causing particles to agglomerate and settle. Both mechanisms can occur simultaneously. Results come from 32 controlled experiments using a rock-flow cell apparatus with varying water content, liquid loading, temperature subcooling, and flow conditions. The study concludes that water bridges and multiphase flow patterns are the key factors controlling hydrate blockage formation in the production flow lines.

Involved external institutions

Federal University of Technology – Paraná / UNIVERSIDADE TECNOLÓGICA FEDERAL DO PARANÁ BR Brazil (BR) Colorado School of Mines US United States (USA) (US)

How to cite

APA:

Marques, D.C., Bassani, C.L., Kakitani, C., Marcelino Neto, M.A., Sum, A.K., & Morales, R.E. (2026). Mapping Wall Deposition Trends of Gas Hydrates: II. Gas–Oil–Water–Hydrate Systems. Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, 65(18), 9738-9746. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.iecr.5c05404

MLA:

Marques, Daniela C., et al. "Mapping Wall Deposition Trends of Gas Hydrates: II. Gas–Oil–Water–Hydrate Systems." Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research 65.18 (2026): 9738-9746.

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