Learning Objectives

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

1. Fundamentals of Oilfield Chemical Selection

• Understand the role of chemicals in flow assurance, production optimization, and asset integrity.
• Identify key chemical selection parameters (temperature, pressure, salinity, compatibility, reactivity, etc.).
• Evaluate cost-benefit analysis in chemical selection for operational efficiency.

2. Classification of Oilfield Chemicals and Their Applications

• Production and Flow Assurance Chemicals:
• Scale inhibitors and corrosion inhibitors.
• Demulsifiers and water clarifiers.
• Paraffin and asphaltene inhibitors.
• Drag-reducing agents (DRA).
• Drilling and Completion Fluids:
• Shale stabilizers and viscosity modifiers.
• Fluid loss control agents and lubricants.
• Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) Chemicals:
• Surfactants, polymers, and alkaline agents.
• CO₂ and nitrogen injection additives.
• Gas Sweetening and H₂S Control:
• Amine-based gas sweeteners and scavengers.
• Microbial H₂S mitigation chemicals.
• Microbial Control and Biocides:
• Sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) inhibitors.
• Pipeline biofilm control agents.

3. Chemical Testing and Performance Evaluation

• Laboratory Testing Methods:
• Bottle testing for demulsifiers.
• Static and dynamic scale inhibition tests.
• Rotating cylinder electrode (RCE) corrosion testing.
• Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) for paraffin wax inhibitors.
• Microbial growth analysis for biocide effectiveness.
• Field Testing and Real-Time Monitoring:
• Continuous chemical dosing and monitoring.
• Field water analysis (pH, sulfate, bicarbonates, iron content).
• Wellhead sampling for scale and corrosion monitoring.
• Compatibility and Stability Testing:
• Interactions between chemicals and process fluids.
• Long-term stability testing under field conditions.

4. Chemical Optimization Strategies

• Dosage Optimization:
• Batch vs. continuous injection strategies.
• Determining effective minimum inhibitor concentration (MIC).
• Cost Reduction and Environmental Considerations:
• Green chemistry alternatives and biodegradable chemicals.
• Waste minimization and chemical recycling strategies.

5. Regulatory Compliance and Safety Considerations

• Ensure compliance with OSHA, EPA, REACH, MARPOL, OSPAR, and offshore regulations.
• Implement safe handling, storage, and disposal of oilfield chemicals.
• Follow HSE best practices for chemical exposure and risk mitigation.

6. Case Studies and Practical Applications

• Review real-world case studies on chemical treatment effectiveness.
• Participate in hands-on chemical testing and data interpretation exercises.
• Develop a customized chemical selection and testing protocol for an oilfield application.

Target Audience

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