Synthesis of terpolymer from Helianthus annuus (natural oil) and evaluation as pour point depressant and viscosity reducer on Indian crude oil

Abstract

Pour Point Depressant is introduced to crude oil at ppm level to overcome transportation problem of crude oil because of its complex chemical structure. Synthesized PPDs improve flow property, viscosity and also improve its numerous parameters to improve performance of crude oil. Low molecular weight and high molecular weight, copolymer having better PPD types. In present work, synthesized Terpolymer, from natural source, was formed from the reaction with Helianthus annuus oil and ester of Erucic Acid with various fatty alcohol. It was evaluated for its properties on Indian waxy crude oils, i.e., From Limbodra well. Structure and molecular weight of synthesized polymer was confirmed by Spectral data and Gel permeation chromatography (GPC). Also its effect on crude oil was evaluated by Rheological studies, SARA Analysis, Pour point depressant effect. Cross–polarizing microscopic studies were performed to study changes in morphology of wax crystals in crude oil with and without additive. A zero friction advanced Rheometer AR-500 was used to determine the viscosity by applying Bingham plastic-flow model.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

Keywords:

• Pour point depressant
• wax inhibitor
• viscosity reducer
• polymers
• crude oil

Acknowledgments

I would like to express my gratitude to my Supervisor Dr. Ashish Nagar, for their invaluable guidance and support throughout my research journey. Also I would like to thank DD University and the Parul University Management for providing the laboratory facilities.

Author contributions

Conceptualization – R.P.B, methodology, R.P.B.AND A.N.; software, R.P.B.; validation, R.P.B and A.N.; formal analysis, R.P.B and A.N.; investigation, R.P.B and A.N.; resources, R.P.B and A.N.; data curation, R.P.B and A.N.; writing—original draft preparation, R.P.B.; writing—review and editing, R.P.B and A.N.; visualization, R.P.B and A.N.; supervision, A.N.; project administration, R.P.B and A.N.; funding acquisition, R.P.B and A.N. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.