Hydrate-Phobic Surfaces

Technology

Van der Waals forces, hydrogen bonding (Lewis acid/ Lewis base interaction), and surface texture effect the interaction of hydrates and surfaces. Therefore, by creating low-surface energy coatings hydrate adhesion can be mitigated. Low-surface energy is achieved with specific lattice parameters that induce a lattice mismatch with the hydrate layer and inhibit adhesion of the hydrate to the surface. Reducing hydrate adhesion prevents hydrate nucleation, which creates hydrate build ups and plugs.

Problem Addressed

Current methods for hydrate mitigation are expensive, energy intensive, and environmentally unfriendly, focusing on the use of chemicals to shift the equilibrium hydrate formation curve to higher pressures and lower temperatures, using kinetic inhibitors to slow the growth of hydrates, heating the pipe walls, or managing the flow of formed hydrates. This technology creates a surface that prevents the adhesion and coagulation of hydrates by reducing the surface energy.

Advantages

• Reduces hydrate adhesion in oil and gas pipes
• Cost effective hydrate mitigation techniques