Non-ionic surfactant influence on peptization of asphaltene agglomerates in heavy oil under hydrothermal conditions in the Na-Fe3O4 catalyst presence

Abstract

This research project examines a promising technology involving the combined injection of surfactants and catalysts into reservoirs for the processing of heavy oil via aquathermolysis. Surfactants act as peptizes, facilitating the weakening of asphaltene agglomerates. The weakening of asphaltene agglomerates allows the catalyst to reach the sulphur-containing component with greater ease, thus facilitating its degradation. In order to ascertain the efficacy of the combined introduction, a Na-Fe₃O₄ catalyst precursor was employed, with a non-ionic surfactant serving the function of a peptize. The alteration in the group composition of the heavy oil prior to and following the treatment was determined through the utilization of XRD, FT-IR, 2D GC–MS, and Malvern Instruments. The results demonstrated that the combined injection method resulted in a notable reduction in the heavy fraction content, from 39.7% to 24.4%, while the light fraction increased from 60.3% to 75.5%. One of the principal outcomes of the combined injection method is the complete neutralization of hydrogen sulphide. Additionally, the destruction of asphaltene agglomerates has resulted in a 56% reduction in oil viscosity. The increase in the H/C elemental analysis coefficient from 1.32 to 1.91 is indicative of an improvement in oil quality following the combined injection process. The combined injection of surfactant and catalyst represents a novel and environmentally-friendly technology for the extraction of high-viscosity oil.