Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Introduction to Oilfield Chemicals

• Understand the role of oilfield chemicals in upstream and midstream operations.
• Identify key challenges that require chemical treatment (scaling, corrosion, emulsions, H₂S, microbial growth, etc.).
• Learn about chemical properties that influence their effectiveness.

2. Classification and Functionality of Oilfield Chemicals

• Production and Flow Assurance Chemicals:
• Scale inhibitors.
• Corrosion inhibitors.
• Demulsifiers and water clarifiers.
• Paraffin and asphaltene inhibitors.
• Drag-reducing agents (DRA).
• Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) Chemicals:
• Surfactants, polymers, and alkaline agents.
• Gas flooding agents (CO₂, nitrogen).
• Microbial EOR (MEOR) chemicals.
• Drilling and Completion Fluids:
• Viscosifiers and fluid loss control agents.
• Shale stabilizers and clay inhibitors.
• Lubricants and foaming agents.
• Well Stimulation and Workover Chemicals:
• Acidizing agents (HCl, HF mixtures).
• Hydraulic fracturing additives.
• Breakers and biocides.
• H₂S and CO₂ Control Chemicals:
• Scavengers and neutralizing agents.
• Amine-based gas sweetening chemicals.
• Microbial Control Agents:
• Biocides and sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) inhibitors.

3. Chemical Properties and Mechanisms of Action

• Understand how chemical structure affects performance and reactivity.
• Study interfacial tension (IFT) reduction in demulsifiers and surfactants.
• Analyze chelation and precipitation mechanisms in scale inhibitors.
• Learn how corrosion inhibitors form protective films on metal surfaces.

4. Compatibility and Chemical Selection Criteria

• Evaluate chemical compatibility with crude oil, water, and process fluids.
• Study temperature, pressure, and salinity effects on chemical performance.
• Optimize chemical dosage and injection strategies for maximum efficiency.

5. Environmental Considerations and Regulatory Compliance

• Understand biodegradability and toxicity concerns in oilfield chemicals.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, REACH, and offshore regulations (OSPAR, MARPOL, etc.).
• Implement best practices for chemical handling, storage, and disposal.

6. Case Studies and Practical Applications

• Review real-world applications of oilfield chemicals in production optimization.
• Participate in hands-on chemical compatibility and selection exercises.
• Develop a chemical treatment plan for a specific oilfield scenario.

Target Audience

• Production and petroleum engineers
• Process and field operations personnel
• Production chemists and flow assurance specialists
• HSE and compliance officers
• Chemical treatment and service company personnel