US20220025275A1 - Composition and Method for Isolation of Paraffinic Hydrocarbons - Google Patents
Composition and Method for Isolation of Paraffinic Hydrocarbons Download PDFInfo
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- US20220025275A1 US20220025275A1 US17/494,400 US202117494400A US2022025275A1 US 20220025275 A1 US20220025275 A1 US 20220025275A1 US 202117494400 A US202117494400 A US 202117494400A US 2022025275 A1 US2022025275 A1 US 2022025275A1
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- composition
- paraffinic hydrocarbon
- paraffinic
- isolation composition
- sludge
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- 229930195733 hydrocarbon Natural products 0.000 title claims abstract description 142
- 150000002430 hydrocarbons Chemical class 0.000 title claims abstract description 142
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 title claims abstract description 96
- 238000002955 isolation Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 77
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 25
- 239000004215 Carbon black (E152) Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 97
- 239000010802 sludge Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 45
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 44
- 239000002904 solvent Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 31
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 29
- 239000004094 surface-active agent Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 22
- 238000005191 phase separation Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 21
- WJRMGBWBIGOIOF-UHFFFAOYSA-N dodecyl benzenesulfonate;propan-2-amine Chemical compound CC(C)N.CCCCCCCCCCCCOS(=O)(=O)C1=CC=CC=C1 WJRMGBWBIGOIOF-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims abstract description 6
- 239000002736 nonionic surfactant Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000002888 zwitterionic surfactant Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 150000007942 carboxylates Chemical class 0.000 claims description 6
- 150000001338 aliphatic hydrocarbons Chemical class 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000003945 anionic surfactant Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 150000002334 glycols Chemical class 0.000 claims description 3
- 150000003568 thioethers Chemical class 0.000 claims 3
- KWIUHFFTVRNATP-UHFFFAOYSA-N Betaine Natural products C[N+](C)(C)CC([O-])=O KWIUHFFTVRNATP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims 1
- KWIUHFFTVRNATP-UHFFFAOYSA-O N,N,N-trimethylglycinium Chemical compound C[N+](C)(C)CC(O)=O KWIUHFFTVRNATP-UHFFFAOYSA-O 0.000 claims 1
- 229960003237 betaine Drugs 0.000 claims 1
- 239000007800 oxidant agent Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 239000012188 paraffin wax Substances 0.000 description 17
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 14
- 239000010779 crude oil Substances 0.000 description 12
- 239000013078 crystal Substances 0.000 description 10
- 239000001993 wax Substances 0.000 description 9
- 239000010690 paraffinic oil Substances 0.000 description 7
- -1 lauryl ether carboxylate Chemical class 0.000 description 5
- 239000003607 modifier Substances 0.000 description 5
- 239000003921 oil Substances 0.000 description 5
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 4
- 239000002202 Polyethylene glycol Substances 0.000 description 3
- YXFVVABEGXRONW-UHFFFAOYSA-N Toluene Chemical compound CC1=CC=CC=C1 YXFVVABEGXRONW-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 230000015572 biosynthetic process Effects 0.000 description 3
- MRUAUOIMASANKQ-UHFFFAOYSA-N cocamidopropyl betaine Chemical compound CCCCCCCCCCCC(=O)NCCC[N+](C)(C)CC([O-])=O MRUAUOIMASANKQ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 3
- 235000009508 confectionery Nutrition 0.000 description 3
- 229920001223 polyethylene glycol Polymers 0.000 description 3
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 3
- 125000000129 anionic group Chemical group 0.000 description 2
- 238000013459 approach Methods 0.000 description 2
- 125000002091 cationic group Chemical group 0.000 description 2
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 description 2
- 231100001261 hazardous Toxicity 0.000 description 2
- 238000002347 injection Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000007924 injection Substances 0.000 description 2
- VNWKTOKETHGBQD-UHFFFAOYSA-N methane Chemical compound C VNWKTOKETHGBQD-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 238000002156 mixing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000003960 organic solvent Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000002244 precipitate Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000001556 precipitation Methods 0.000 description 2
- 238000012545 processing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000000047 product Substances 0.000 description 2
- 150000004763 sulfides Chemical class 0.000 description 2
- 238000012360 testing method Methods 0.000 description 2
- KBWINQAOGFKEEX-UHFFFAOYSA-M 2-[1-ethyl-2-(16-methylheptadecyl)-4,5-dihydroimidazol-1-ium-1-yl]ethanol;ethyl sulfate Chemical compound CCOS([O-])(=O)=O.OCC[N+]1(CC)CCN=C1CCCCCCCCCCCCCCCC(C)C KBWINQAOGFKEEX-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 1
- IXOCGRPBILEGOX-UHFFFAOYSA-N 3-[3-(dodecanoylamino)propyl-dimethylazaniumyl]-2-hydroxypropane-1-sulfonate Chemical compound CCCCCCCCCCCC(=O)NCCC[N+](C)(C)CC(O)CS([O-])(=O)=O IXOCGRPBILEGOX-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon Chemical compound [C] OKTJSMMVPCPJKN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- LZZYPRNAOMGNLH-UHFFFAOYSA-M Cetrimonium bromide Chemical compound [Br-].CCCCCCCCCCCCCCCC[N+](C)(C)C LZZYPRNAOMGNLH-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 1
- VEXZGXHMUGYJMC-UHFFFAOYSA-M Chloride anion Chemical compound [Cl-] VEXZGXHMUGYJMC-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 1
- LFQSCWFLJHTTHZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N Ethanol Chemical compound CCO LFQSCWFLJHTTHZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- MBMLMWLHJBBADN-UHFFFAOYSA-N Ferrous sulfide Chemical class [Fe]=S MBMLMWLHJBBADN-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- YNAVUWVOSKDBBP-UHFFFAOYSA-N Morpholine Chemical class C1COCCN1 YNAVUWVOSKDBBP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- LFTLOKWAGJYHHR-UHFFFAOYSA-N N-methylmorpholine N-oxide Chemical compound CN1(=O)CCOCC1 LFTLOKWAGJYHHR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000008186 active pharmaceutical agent Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000013019 agitation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 125000005210 alkyl ammonium group Chemical group 0.000 description 1
- 150000008051 alkyl sulfates Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 150000004945 aromatic hydrocarbons Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 239000003225 biodiesel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052799 carbon Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000003093 cationic surfactant Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000005119 centrifugation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008021 deposition Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000013461 design Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000010790 dilution Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000012895 dilution Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004821 distillation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000009977 dual effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000839 emulsion Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000007613 environmental effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000605 extraction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000004508 fractional distillation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 1
- 125000000623 heterocyclic group Chemical group 0.000 description 1
- 150000002460 imidazoles Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 238000002844 melting Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008018 melting Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000003345 natural gas Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000746 purification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 150000003222 pyridines Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 150000003242 quaternary ammonium salts Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 239000013049 sediment Substances 0.000 description 1
- GOJYXPWOUJYXJC-UHFFFAOYSA-M sodium;2-[1-(2-hydroxyethyl)-2-undecyl-4,5-dihydroimidazol-1-ium-1-yl]acetate;hydroxide Chemical compound [OH-].[Na+].CCCCCCCCCCCC1=NCC[N+]1(CCO)CC([O-])=O GOJYXPWOUJYXJC-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 1
- SFVFIFLLYFPGHH-UHFFFAOYSA-M stearalkonium chloride Chemical compound [Cl-].CCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCC[N+](C)(C)CC1=CC=CC=C1 SFVFIFLLYFPGHH-UHFFFAOYSA-M 0.000 description 1
- 229940057981 stearalkonium chloride Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 239000000126 substance Substances 0.000 description 1
- 150000003871 sulfonates Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 150000003467 sulfuric acid derivatives Chemical class 0.000 description 1
- 239000007762 w/o emulsion Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C10—PETROLEUM, GAS OR COKE INDUSTRIES; TECHNICAL GASES CONTAINING CARBON MONOXIDE; FUELS; LUBRICANTS; PEAT
- C10G—CRACKING HYDROCARBON OILS; PRODUCTION OF LIQUID HYDROCARBON MIXTURES, e.g. BY DESTRUCTIVE HYDROGENATION, OLIGOMERISATION, POLYMERISATION; RECOVERY OF HYDROCARBON OILS FROM OIL-SHALE, OIL-SAND, OR GASES; REFINING MIXTURES MAINLY CONSISTING OF HYDROCARBONS; REFORMING OF NAPHTHA; MINERAL WAXES
- C10G33/00—Dewatering or demulsification of hydrocarbon oils
- C10G33/04—Dewatering or demulsification of hydrocarbon oils with chemical means
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D17/00—Separation of liquids, not provided for elsewhere, e.g. by thermal diffusion
- B01D17/02—Separation of non-miscible liquids
- B01D17/04—Breaking emulsions
- B01D17/042—Breaking emulsions by changing the temperature
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D17/00—Separation of liquids, not provided for elsewhere, e.g. by thermal diffusion
- B01D17/02—Separation of non-miscible liquids
- B01D17/04—Breaking emulsions
- B01D17/047—Breaking emulsions with separation aids
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C10—PETROLEUM, GAS OR COKE INDUSTRIES; TECHNICAL GASES CONTAINING CARBON MONOXIDE; FUELS; LUBRICANTS; PEAT
- C10G—CRACKING HYDROCARBON OILS; PRODUCTION OF LIQUID HYDROCARBON MIXTURES, e.g. BY DESTRUCTIVE HYDROGENATION, OLIGOMERISATION, POLYMERISATION; RECOVERY OF HYDROCARBON OILS FROM OIL-SHALE, OIL-SAND, OR GASES; REFINING MIXTURES MAINLY CONSISTING OF HYDROCARBONS; REFORMING OF NAPHTHA; MINERAL WAXES
- C10G21/00—Refining of hydrocarbon oils, in the absence of hydrogen, by extraction with selective solvents
- C10G21/06—Refining of hydrocarbon oils, in the absence of hydrogen, by extraction with selective solvents characterised by the solvent used
- C10G21/12—Organic compounds only
- C10G21/27—Organic compounds not provided for in a single one of groups C10G21/14 - C10G21/26
-
- C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
- C10—PETROLEUM, GAS OR COKE INDUSTRIES; TECHNICAL GASES CONTAINING CARBON MONOXIDE; FUELS; LUBRICANTS; PEAT
- C10G—CRACKING HYDROCARBON OILS; PRODUCTION OF LIQUID HYDROCARBON MIXTURES, e.g. BY DESTRUCTIVE HYDROGENATION, OLIGOMERISATION, POLYMERISATION; RECOVERY OF HYDROCARBON OILS FROM OIL-SHALE, OIL-SAND, OR GASES; REFINING MIXTURES MAINLY CONSISTING OF HYDROCARBONS; REFORMING OF NAPHTHA; MINERAL WAXES
- C10G2300/00—Aspects relating to hydrocarbon processing covered by groups C10G1/00 - C10G99/00
- C10G2300/20—Characteristics of the feedstock or the products
- C10G2300/201—Impurities
Definitions
- This invention relates to the field of industrial facility cleanup and oil extraction, and, more specifically, a composition and method for paraffinic oil isolation from crude oil tanks containing the paraffinic oil are provided.
- crude oil may be produced that contains dissolved waxes or paraffins.
- the solubility of high-molecular weight paraffin is related to temperature.
- the paraffin wax may precipitate and deposit under these environmental conditions.
- the precipitated paraffin wax may form stable wax crystals that deposit on the surfaces of equipment.
- the fractional distillation may separate one fraction of hydrocarbons from the paraffinic hydrocarbons. As a part of the process, the remaining fraction containing the paraffinic hydrocarbons may contain solids and water.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbons may exist as sludge and may be stored in crude oil tanks, which are sometimes referred to as waxy crude oil tanks.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbons are a valuable commodity, yet the purification and separation of the paraffinic hydrocarbons from the solids and the water may be difficult, and the costs may exceed the value of the volume of the paraffinic oil.
- the FIGURE illustrates certain aspects of some of the examples of the present disclosure and should not be used to limit or define the method.
- the FIGURE illustrates a three phase separation comprising a paraffinic hydrocarbon layer, a water layer, and a layer of settled water-wet solids in accordance with certain examples.
- a method for isolating a paraffinic hydrocarbon layer from a sludge comprising a mixture of paraffinic hydrocarbons, water, and solids may comprise providing a paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition comprising isopropylamine dodecylbenzene sulfonate, a surfactant, and a solvent; contacting the sludge with the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition; and allowing the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition to separate the sludge into a three phase separation comprising a paraffinic hydrocarbon layer, a water layer, and a layer of settled solids.
- a composition for isolating a paraffinic hydrocarbon layer from a sludge comprising a mixture of paraffinic hydrocarbons, water, and solids.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may comprise isopropylamine dodecylbenzene sulfonate; a surfactant; and a solvent.
- the method for isolation of paraffinic hydrocarbons comprises a paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition.
- Embodiments of the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition comprise a mixture of a combination demulsifier and crystal modifier, surfactants, and a solvent.
- the combination demulsifier and crystal modifier is isopropylamine dodecylbenzene sulfonate (“IDBS”).
- the surfactants may be nonionic, anionic, cationic, or zwitterionic.
- the solvent may be any compatible light hydrocarbon.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be used to isolate paraffin hydrocarbons from water and solids.
- a “paraffin hydrocarbon” as defined herein, is a hydrocarbon having a carbon number of 18 to 36.
- the paraffmic hydrocarbon isolation composition may modify the paraffin wax crystals found in crude oil tanks, or other such equipment, such that the paraffin hydrocarbons remain fluid and do not precipitate when cooled, moreover the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may break the water-in-oil emulsion, separating the water from the paraffinic hydrocarbons and also removing any paraffinic hydrocarbons from the surface of the solids. The resulting product is a three phase separation of the paraffinic hydrocarbons, water, and the settled water-wet solids.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be used to isolate the paraffin hydrocarbons from any industrial equipment used in industrial facilities including vessels, tanks, vacuum towers, heat exchangers, piping, distillation columns, and the like.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be used to remove the paraffin hydrocarbons from any equipment used to produce, store, or transport the paraffin hydrocarbons during the processes of crude oil refinement, natural gas processing, hydrocarbon transport, hydrocarbon processing, hydrocarbon cleanup, and the like.
- Embodiments of the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition comprise the combination wax crystal modifier and demulsifier, IDBS.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may have any wt. % of IDBS suitable for isolating the paraffin hydrocarbons from any water or solids present, such that as pure as possible a volume of the paraffin hydrocarbons is produced.
- the paraffin hydrocarbons may be removed from the surface of industrial equipment and subsequently purified by the production of a three phase separation comprising the paraffin hydrocarbons, water, and any settled water-wet solids.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition has between about 0.5 wt. % IDBS and about 65.0 wt. % IDBS, alternatively between about 25.0 wt.
- the IDBS may comprise about 63.0 wt. % to about 65.0 wt.% of the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition.
- Embodiments of the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition comprise one or more surfactants.
- the surfactants may be cationic, anionic, nonionic, zwitterionic, or any combination thereof.
- cationic surfactants may include, but are not limited to, quaternary ammonium salts such as an imidazole derivative, heterocycles (e.g., isostearyl ethylimidazolinium ethosulfate (“ISES”), etc.), alkyl-substituted pyridines, morpholinium salts, alkyl ammonium salts (e.g., cetyl trimethylammonium bromide, stearalkonium chloride, dimethyldioctadecylammonim chloride, etc.), the like, or any combination thereof.
- quaternary ammonium salts such as an imidazole derivative, heterocycles (e.g., isostearyl ethylimidazolinium ethos
- anionic surfactants may include, but are not limited to, carboxylates (e.g., trideceth-8 carboxylate, lauryl ether carboxylate, myristyl ether carboxylate), sulfonates (e.g., alkylbenzene sulfonate), sulfates (e.g., alkyl sulfates, alkyl ether sulfates), the like, or any combination thereof.
- carboxylates e.g., trideceth-8 carboxylate, lauryl ether carboxylate, myristyl ether carboxylate
- sulfonates e.g., alkylbenzene sulfonate
- sulfates e.g., alkyl sulfates, alkyl ether sulfates
- nonionic surfactants include, but are not limited to, glycol derivatives (e.g., polyethylene glycol, methoxypolyethylene glycols), ethoxylates (e.g., alcohol ethoxylates, ethoxysulfates), the like, or any combination thereof.
- zwitterionic surfactants include, but are not limited to, betaines (e.g., cocoamidopropyl betaine), hydroxysultaines (e.g., cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine), amphoacetates (e.g., sodium lauroamphoacetate), the like, or any combination thereof.
- the surfactants may be mixed such that the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition comprises multiple classes of surfactants, for example, in an embodiment, the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may comprise an anionic surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, and a zwitterionic surfactant. In a specific embodiment, the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition comprises the surfactants polyethylene glycol and cocoamidopropyl betaine.
- the total amount of surfactants may vary as desired in order to achieve the desired result. In embodiments, the total amount of surfactants in the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may include or be any value between about 0.01 wt. % to about 5 wt. %, alternatively, about 0.05 wt. % to about 3 wt.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition comprises polyethylene glycol in an amount of about 1 wt. % or less and cocoamidopropyl betaine in an amount of about 0.1 wt. % or less.
- surfactants it is desirable to choose surfactants that do not interfere with the functionality of the IDBS and/or to use an amount of surfactant that does not interfere with the functionality of the IDBS. With the benefit of this disclosure, one having ordinary skill in the art will be able to select an appropriate type(s) and amount of surfactants to include in the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition for a chosen application.
- Embodiments of the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition comprise a solvent.
- the solvent may be any solvent, or combination of solvents, suitable for dissolving and carrying the surfactant and IDBS. Further, it may be desirable to use a solvent that is compatible with the paraffinic hydrocarbons and any cutter stock used to dilute the “sludge,” which is the mixture of the paraffinic hydrocarbons, water, and solids present in a vessel, for example, vessel 10 as illustrated on the FIGURE.
- solvents generally include light hydrocarbons, aliphatic hydrocarbons, or aromatic hydrocarbons.
- the solvent may include, but should not be limited to, diesel, biodiesel, cycle oil, crude oil, light sweet crude oil, the like, or a combination thereof.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may include the solvent in an amount between about 30.0 wt. % solvent to about 98.0 wt. % solvent, alternatively, between about 30.0 wt. % solvent and about 50.0 wt. % solvent, or further alternatively, between about 32.0 wt. % solvent and about 35.0 wt. % solvent.
- solvent in an amount between about 30.0 wt. % solvent to about 98.0 wt. % solvent, alternatively, between about 30.0 wt. % solvent and about 50.0 wt. % solvent, or further alternatively, between about 32.0 wt. % solvent and about 35.0 wt. % solvent.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be prepared by any suitable method.
- the components may be mixed in any order as desired.
- the IDBS may be added to a surfactant and mixed, and then the solvent may be added subsequently and mixed with the IDBS and surfactant to form the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition.
- the IDBS may be added to the solvent and mixed, and then one or more surfactants may be added to the IDBS and solvent and mixed.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be prepared at any suitable temperature or pressure, including ambient temperature and pressure.
- a process for isolating the paraffinic hydrocarbons comprises contacting the sludge with the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition.
- sludge describes the mixture of the paraffinic hydrocarbons, water, and solids.
- the term “sludge” does not imply any particular viscosity, clarity, consistency, etc. Further, the term “sludge,” does not exclude the presence of other components present in the sludge besides the paraffinic hydrocarbons, water, and solids.
- the sludge may comprise hydrocarbons in addition to the paraffinic hydrocarbons.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be introduced into a vessel in which a sludge is disposed.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be introduced into the vessel by any suitable means such that the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition contacts the sludge disposed therein.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition is poured, pumped, injected, the like, or any combination thereof in the vessel.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition is injected into a vessel via a pressurized injection.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be injected into the vessel with pressure at a flow rate of about 1,000 gpm to about 3,500 gpm, alternatively, at about 2,650 gpm to about 3,350 gpm, or further alternatively, at about 2,800 gpm to about 3,200 gpm.
- embodiments of the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be used to produce a three phase separation of paraffinic hydrocarbons, water, and water-wet solids.
- the FIGURE illustrates an example of a three phase separation 5 .
- the three phase separation 5 is disposed within a vessel 10 , for example, a crude oil tank.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbon layer 15 is disposed above the water layer 20 .
- Any settled water-wet solids 25 may be disposed beneath the water layer 20 .
- the three phase separation 5 is produced by contacting a sludge mixture comprising the paraffinic hydrocarbons, water, and solids.
- Heat may be added to help liquefy the sludge so that the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be circulated throughout the sludge.
- the IDBS as a dual function wax crystal modifier and demulsifier, modifies paraffin wax crystal formation so that when the IDBS has been thoroughly circulated amongst the sludge, the paraffin hydrocarbons may not recrystallize even when cooled to below the wax precipitation temperature.
- the paraffinic oil layer 15 may be removed.
- a means for removal for example, a drain, suction valve, etc.
- heat may be applied to the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition and/or the sludge containing the paraffinic hydrocarbons.
- the heat may be used to liquefy (i.e., reduce the viscosity) of the sludge so that the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be more easily circulated amongst it.
- the heat may be applied by steam, boiler and heat exchanger, heated coils, or the like. In embodiments, using steam, the steam may be at any sufficient temperature. In embodiments, and without limitation, enough heat is applied to raise the temperature to the melting point of paraffinic hydrocarbons in the sludge. In an embodiment, the amount of heat applied is between about 35° C. to about 80° C.
- the amount of heat applied is between about 40° C. to about 70° C. In further alternative embodiments, the amount of heat applied is between about 40° C. to about 60° C.
- the heat may also be applied to the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition prior to the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition contacting sludge or concurrently while the paraffmic hydrocarbon isolation composition is contacting the sludge.
- the steam may be applied at any sufficient pressure, for example, the steam may be applied at a pressure between about 50 psig to about 250 psig, alternatively, 100 psig to about 200 psig, or further alternatively, about 100 psig to about 150 psig.
- the steam may be applied at a pressure between about 50 psig to about 250 psig, alternatively, 100 psig to about 200 psig, or further alternatively, about 100 psig to about 150 psig.
- proper circulation may be important in treating the sludge (i.e., to produce a three phase separation 5 ) as it may be desirable to mix the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition thoroughly with the sludge so as to modify the wax crystal formation potential of as much of the paraffmic hydrocarbons as can be achieved and also to break any water-in-oil or oil-in-water emulsions which may form so as to produce as clean a three phase separation 5 as possible.
- the circulated paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be circulated in the tank using any sufficient method to distribute the paraffmic hydrocarbon isolation composition throughout and amongst the sludge as evenly as possible.
- the vessel 10 contents may be circulated in an amount between about ten vessel volumes to about thirty vessel volumes.
- the vessel 10 contents may be circulated in an amount between about ten vessel volumes to about twenty vessel volumes, or alternatively, about ten vessel volumes to about fifteen vessel volumes.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation process may include the use of a cutter.
- the cutter may be used to reduce the viscosity of the sludge through dilution.
- the cutter may be any light sweet oil with an API gravity of 30 or greater.
- the cutter may be light cycle oil, diesel, light sweet crude oil, the like, or any combination thereof.
- the cutter may be the same as the solvent used in the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition. The cutter may be added to the sludge in any ratio.
- the cutter may be added to the sludge in a sludge:cutter:water ratio of about 4:2:1, where the water represents the total water in the tank including water emulsified with the sludge and any added water which may not be emulsified with sludge.
- the cutter may be added in a sludge:cutter:water ratio of about 4:4:1 or alternatively a sludge:cutter:water ratio of about 2:2:1.
- the production of the three phase separation 5 may take any suitable period of time to complete.
- the three phase separation 5 may take as long a period of time as it takes to recirculate the desired amount of volumes of the vessel, for example, vessel 10 .
- the time period to produce the three phase separation 5 is the time suitable to complete the ten volume vessel recirculation.
- the period of time sufficient to produce the three phase separation 5 may be dependent upon the size and shape of the vessel, the volume of sludge within the vessel, the recirculation equipment used to recirculate the vessel volume, etc.
- additional time may be suitable to allow any of the solids, which may be present within the sludge, to settle.
- enough time may be provided for the solids to settle out of the paraffinic hydrocarbon layer 15 .
- the purity of a three phase separation 5 may be measured by lab testing.
- a “Basic Sediment and Water Test” (“BS&W”) as described by ASTM D1796-11e1 may be used to measure the purity of the paraffmic hydrocarbon layer 15 .
- BS&W Basic Sediment and Water Test
- a volume of organic solvent for example toluene
- a volume of the paraffinic hydrocarbon layer 15 equal in volume to the volume of the organic solvent may subsequently be added to the centrifuge tube.
- the centrifuge tube may then be placed in a centrifuge and counterbalanced. The centrifuge tube may then be centrifuged for a sufficient amount of time to allow for layer separation.
- the centrifuge tube may be centrifuged for about 15 minutes at a centrifugal speed of 1 , 250 rpm or greater. After centrifugation, the centrifuge tube may be removed and the volume of each individual layer (e.g., the paraffinic hydrocarbon layer 15 , the water layer 20 , and the layer of settled water-wet solids 25 ) may be determined.
- the BS&W percentage in the removed sample obtained from the paraffinic hydrocarbon layer may then be determined according to the following equation:
- BS&W (%) [(mL water+mL settled solids)/mL paraffinic hydrocarbons] ⁇ 100 (eq. 1)
- the paraffmic hydrocarbon layer 15 may be 95% pure or greater, which refers to the paraffinic hydrocarbon layer 15 having a BS&W percentage of 5% or less. In alternative embodiments, the paraffmic hydrocarbon layer 15 may be 98% pure or greater (i.e. BS&W percentage of 2% or less). In further alternative embodiments, the paraffinic hydrocarbon layer 15 may be 99% pure of greater (i.e. BS&W percentage of 1% or less).
- the water in the water layer 20 may be removed and disposed of, for example, at a water treatment facility.
- the settled water-wet solids 25 may also be removed of and disposed at any facility sufficient for the removal of this class of solids.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be used in conjunction with other products used to treat industrial equipment.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be used concurrently with materials which may remove hazardous reactive sulfides, for example, H 2 S.
- the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be used in conjunction with mild oxidizers such as methylmorpholine-N-oxide, which may remove hazardous reactive sulfides, for example, H 2 S and may convert pyrophoric iron sulfides to non-pyrophoric forms.
- paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be used with any such additional treatment compositions, however, care should be taken to use the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition only with compatible additional treatment compositions that may not negatively interfere with the functionality of the paraffmic hydrocarbon isolation composition.
- compositions and methods are described in terms of “comprising,” “containing,” or “including” various components or steps, the compositions and methods can also “consist essentially of” or “consist of” the various components and steps.
- indefinite articles “a” or “an,” as used in the claims, are defined herein to mean one or more than one of the element that it introduces.
- ranges from any lower limit may be combined with any upper limit to recite a range not explicitly recited, as well as, ranges from any lower limit may be combined with any other lower limit to recite a range not explicitly recited, in the same way, ranges from any upper limit may be combined with any other upper limit to recite a range not explicitly recited.
- any numerical range with a lower limit and an upper limit is disclosed, any number and any included range falling within the range are specifically disclosed.
- every range of values (of the form, “from about a to about b,” or, equivalently, “from approximately a to b,” or, equivalently, “from approximately a-b”) disclosed herein is to be understood to set forth every number and range encompassed within the broader range of values even if not explicitly recited.
- every point or individual value may serve as its own lower or upper limit combined with any other point or individual value or any other lower or upper limit, to recite a range not explicitly recited.
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Abstract
A method and composition for isolating a paraffinic hydrocarbon layer from a sludge comprising a mixture of paraffinic hydrocarbons, water, and solids are provided. The method comprises providing a paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition comprising isopropylamine dodecylbenzene sulfonate, a surfactant, and a solvent; contacting the sludge with the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition; and allowing the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition to separate the sludge into a three phase separation comprising a paraffinic hydrocarbon layer, a water layer, and a layer of settled solids.
Description
- This application is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/225,816 filed Dec. 19, 2018, which is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/987,522 filed Jan. 4, 2016, which are herein incorporated by reference in its entirety.
- This invention relates to the field of industrial facility cleanup and oil extraction, and, more specifically, a composition and method for paraffinic oil isolation from crude oil tanks containing the paraffinic oil are provided.
- During production, crude oil may be produced that contains dissolved waxes or paraffins. The solubility of high-molecular weight paraffin is related to temperature. When the temperature of the crude oil, or fluid in which the paraffin is dissolved, is lower than the wax precipitation temperature, the paraffin wax may precipitate and deposit under these environmental conditions. The precipitated paraffin wax may form stable wax crystals that deposit on the surfaces of equipment. When the crude oil is refined, the fractional distillation may separate one fraction of hydrocarbons from the paraffinic hydrocarbons. As a part of the process, the remaining fraction containing the paraffinic hydrocarbons may contain solids and water.
- The paraffinic hydrocarbons may exist as sludge and may be stored in crude oil tanks, which are sometimes referred to as waxy crude oil tanks. The paraffinic hydrocarbons are a valuable commodity, yet the purification and separation of the paraffinic hydrocarbons from the solids and the water may be difficult, and the costs may exceed the value of the volume of the paraffinic oil.
- Previous approaches to removing the paraffinic hydrocarbons have included heating the sludge deposits, dissolving them with chemical solvents, or modifying the ability of the wax to undergo crystal formation using polymeric wax crystal modifiers. Such approaches, however, do not isolate the paraffinic hydrocarbons, but merely remove them from surfaces and/or stop deposition. Therefore, the valuable paraffinic hydrocarbons are disposed of, and their value wasted. Further, their removal and subsequent disposal may also be an extra cost on the overall refinement process.
- Consequently, there is a need for a new composition and method for the isolation and removal of paraffinic hydrocarbons.
- The FIGURE illustrates certain aspects of some of the examples of the present disclosure and should not be used to limit or define the method. The FIGURE illustrates a three phase separation comprising a paraffinic hydrocarbon layer, a water layer, and a layer of settled water-wet solids in accordance with certain examples.
- These and other needs in the art are addressed in an embodiment by a method for isolating a paraffinic hydrocarbon layer from a sludge comprising a mixture of paraffinic hydrocarbons, water, and solids. The method may comprise providing a paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition comprising isopropylamine dodecylbenzene sulfonate, a surfactant, and a solvent; contacting the sludge with the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition; and allowing the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition to separate the sludge into a three phase separation comprising a paraffinic hydrocarbon layer, a water layer, and a layer of settled solids.
- These and other needs in the art are addressed in an embodiment by a composition for isolating a paraffinic hydrocarbon layer from a sludge comprising a mixture of paraffinic hydrocarbons, water, and solids. The paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may comprise isopropylamine dodecylbenzene sulfonate; a surfactant; and a solvent.
- The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the features and technical advantages of the present invention in order that the detailed description of the invention that follows may be better understood. Additional features and advantages of the invention will be described hereinafter that form the subject of the claims of the invention. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and the specific embodiments disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying or designing other embodiments for carrying out the same purposes of the present invention. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent embodiments do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.
- In embodiments, the method for isolation of paraffinic hydrocarbons comprises a paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition. Embodiments of the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition comprise a mixture of a combination demulsifier and crystal modifier, surfactants, and a solvent. The combination demulsifier and crystal modifier is isopropylamine dodecylbenzene sulfonate (“IDBS”). The surfactants may be nonionic, anionic, cationic, or zwitterionic. The solvent may be any compatible light hydrocarbon. The paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be used to isolate paraffin hydrocarbons from water and solids. A “paraffin hydrocarbon” as defined herein, is a hydrocarbon having a carbon number of 18 to 36. Without limitation, the paraffmic hydrocarbon isolation composition may modify the paraffin wax crystals found in crude oil tanks, or other such equipment, such that the paraffin hydrocarbons remain fluid and do not precipitate when cooled, moreover the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may break the water-in-oil emulsion, separating the water from the paraffinic hydrocarbons and also removing any paraffinic hydrocarbons from the surface of the solids. The resulting product is a three phase separation of the paraffinic hydrocarbons, water, and the settled water-wet solids. In embodiments, the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be used to isolate the paraffin hydrocarbons from any industrial equipment used in industrial facilities including vessels, tanks, vacuum towers, heat exchangers, piping, distillation columns, and the like. In embodiments, the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be used to remove the paraffin hydrocarbons from any equipment used to produce, store, or transport the paraffin hydrocarbons during the processes of crude oil refinement, natural gas processing, hydrocarbon transport, hydrocarbon processing, hydrocarbon cleanup, and the like.
- Embodiments of the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition comprise the combination wax crystal modifier and demulsifier, IDBS. The paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may have any wt. % of IDBS suitable for isolating the paraffin hydrocarbons from any water or solids present, such that as pure as possible a volume of the paraffin hydrocarbons is produced. For instance, the paraffin hydrocarbons may be removed from the surface of industrial equipment and subsequently purified by the production of a three phase separation comprising the paraffin hydrocarbons, water, and any settled water-wet solids. In an embodiment, the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition has between about 0.5 wt. % IDBS and about 65.0 wt. % IDBS, alternatively between about 25.0 wt. % IDBS and about 65.0 wt. % IDBS. In some embodiments, the IDBS may comprise about 63.0 wt. % to about 65.0 wt.% of the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition. With the benefit of this disclosure, one having ordinary skill in the art will be able to select an appropriate amount of IDBS to include in the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition for a chosen application.
- Embodiments of the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition comprise one or more surfactants. The surfactants may be cationic, anionic, nonionic, zwitterionic, or any combination thereof. Examples of cationic surfactants may include, but are not limited to, quaternary ammonium salts such as an imidazole derivative, heterocycles (e.g., isostearyl ethylimidazolinium ethosulfate (“ISES”), etc.), alkyl-substituted pyridines, morpholinium salts, alkyl ammonium salts (e.g., cetyl trimethylammonium bromide, stearalkonium chloride, dimethyldioctadecylammonim chloride, etc.), the like, or any combination thereof. Examples of anionic surfactants may include, but are not limited to, carboxylates (e.g., trideceth-8 carboxylate, lauryl ether carboxylate, myristyl ether carboxylate), sulfonates (e.g., alkylbenzene sulfonate), sulfates (e.g., alkyl sulfates, alkyl ether sulfates), the like, or any combination thereof. Examples of nonionic surfactants include, but are not limited to, glycol derivatives (e.g., polyethylene glycol, methoxypolyethylene glycols), ethoxylates (e.g., alcohol ethoxylates, ethoxysulfates), the like, or any combination thereof. Examples of zwitterionic surfactants include, but are not limited to, betaines (e.g., cocoamidopropyl betaine), hydroxysultaines (e.g., cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine), amphoacetates (e.g., sodium lauroamphoacetate), the like, or any combination thereof. The surfactants may be mixed such that the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition comprises multiple classes of surfactants, for example, in an embodiment, the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may comprise an anionic surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, and a zwitterionic surfactant. In a specific embodiment, the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition comprises the surfactants polyethylene glycol and cocoamidopropyl betaine. The total amount of surfactants may vary as desired in order to achieve the desired result. In embodiments, the total amount of surfactants in the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may include or be any value between about 0.01 wt. % to about 5 wt. %, alternatively, about 0.05 wt. % to about 3 wt. %, or further alternatively, about 0.1 wt. % to about 1 wt. %. In an embodiment, the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition comprises polyethylene glycol in an amount of about 1 wt. % or less and cocoamidopropyl betaine in an amount of about 0.1 wt. % or less. When choosing surfactants, it is desirable to choose surfactants that do not interfere with the functionality of the IDBS and/or to use an amount of surfactant that does not interfere with the functionality of the IDBS. With the benefit of this disclosure, one having ordinary skill in the art will be able to select an appropriate type(s) and amount of surfactants to include in the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition for a chosen application.
- Embodiments of the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition comprise a solvent. The solvent may be any solvent, or combination of solvents, suitable for dissolving and carrying the surfactant and IDBS. Further, it may be desirable to use a solvent that is compatible with the paraffinic hydrocarbons and any cutter stock used to dilute the “sludge,” which is the mixture of the paraffinic hydrocarbons, water, and solids present in a vessel, for example,
vessel 10 as illustrated on the FIGURE. Examples of solvents generally include light hydrocarbons, aliphatic hydrocarbons, or aromatic hydrocarbons. Without limitation, the solvent may include, but should not be limited to, diesel, biodiesel, cycle oil, crude oil, light sweet crude oil, the like, or a combination thereof. In embodiments, the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may include the solvent in an amount between about 30.0 wt. % solvent to about 98.0 wt. % solvent, alternatively, between about 30.0 wt. % solvent and about 50.0 wt. % solvent, or further alternatively, between about 32.0 wt. % solvent and about 35.0 wt. % solvent. With the benefit of this disclosure, one having ordinary skill in the art will be able to select an appropriate type and amount of the solvent to include in the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition for a chosen application. - The paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be prepared by any suitable method. The components may be mixed in any order as desired. For example, the IDBS may be added to a surfactant and mixed, and then the solvent may be added subsequently and mixed with the IDBS and surfactant to form the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition. Alternatively, the IDBS may be added to the solvent and mixed, and then one or more surfactants may be added to the IDBS and solvent and mixed. The paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be prepared at any suitable temperature or pressure, including ambient temperature and pressure. Thus, there is no preferred way to produce the paraffmic hydrocarbon isolation composition, and the proper production of the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition, with the benefit of this disclosure, will be within the understanding of one of ordinary skill in the art.
- In embodiments, a process for isolating the paraffinic hydrocarbons comprises contacting the sludge with the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition. As used herein, “sludge” describes the mixture of the paraffinic hydrocarbons, water, and solids. The term “sludge” does not imply any particular viscosity, clarity, consistency, etc. Further, the term “sludge,” does not exclude the presence of other components present in the sludge besides the paraffinic hydrocarbons, water, and solids. For example, the sludge may comprise hydrocarbons in addition to the paraffinic hydrocarbons. In embodiments, the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be introduced into a vessel in which a sludge is disposed. The paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be introduced into the vessel by any suitable means such that the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition contacts the sludge disposed therein. In embodiments, the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition is poured, pumped, injected, the like, or any combination thereof in the vessel. As an example, in some embodiments, the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition is injected into a vessel via a pressurized injection. For example, the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be injected into the vessel with pressure at a flow rate of about 1,000 gpm to about 3,500 gpm, alternatively, at about 2,650 gpm to about 3,350 gpm, or further alternatively, at about 2,800 gpm to about 3,200 gpm. With the benefit of this disclosure, one having ordinary skill in the art will be able to select an appropriate injection method for the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition for a chosen application.
- As discussed above, embodiments of the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be used to produce a three phase separation of paraffinic hydrocarbons, water, and water-wet solids. The FIGURE illustrates an example of a three
phase separation 5. The threephase separation 5 is disposed within avessel 10, for example, a crude oil tank. In the threephase separation 5, theparaffinic hydrocarbon layer 15 is disposed above thewater layer 20. Any settled water-wet solids 25 may be disposed beneath thewater layer 20. In embodiments, the threephase separation 5 is produced by contacting a sludge mixture comprising the paraffinic hydrocarbons, water, and solids. Heat may be added to help liquefy the sludge so that the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be circulated throughout the sludge. Without limitation by theory, the IDBS as a dual function wax crystal modifier and demulsifier, modifies paraffin wax crystal formation so that when the IDBS has been thoroughly circulated amongst the sludge, the paraffin hydrocarbons may not recrystallize even when cooled to below the wax precipitation temperature. - Once a three
phase separation 5 has been produced, theparaffinic oil layer 15 may be removed. In some embodiments, it may be desired to drain thewater layer 20 or to add water to thewater layer 20 such that theparaffinic oil layer 15 is positioned such that a means for removal, for example, a drain, suction valve, etc. may be positioned adjacent to theparaffinic oil layer 15. When draining thewater layer 20 or adding to thewater layer 20, it may be desirable to not disturb the interface between thewater layer 20 and theparaffinic oil layer 15 as this may result in unwanted mixing between the separated layers. - In embodiments, heat may be applied to the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition and/or the sludge containing the paraffinic hydrocarbons. In embodiments, and without limitation by theory, the heat may be used to liquefy (i.e., reduce the viscosity) of the sludge so that the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be more easily circulated amongst it. The heat may be applied by steam, boiler and heat exchanger, heated coils, or the like. In embodiments, using steam, the steam may be at any sufficient temperature. In embodiments, and without limitation, enough heat is applied to raise the temperature to the melting point of paraffinic hydrocarbons in the sludge. In an embodiment, the amount of heat applied is between about 35° C. to about 80° C. In some alternative embodiments, the amount of heat applied is between about 40° C. to about 70° C. In further alternative embodiments, the amount of heat applied is between about 40° C. to about 60° C. The heat may also be applied to the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition prior to the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition contacting sludge or concurrently while the paraffmic hydrocarbon isolation composition is contacting the sludge. In embodiments using steam, the steam may be applied at any sufficient pressure, for example, the steam may be applied at a pressure between about 50 psig to about 250 psig, alternatively, 100 psig to about 200 psig, or further alternatively, about 100 psig to about 150 psig. With the benefit of this disclosure, one having ordinary skill in the art will be able to heat the paraffinic hydrocarbons to a desired temperature for a chosen application.
- As discussed above, proper circulation may be important in treating the sludge (i.e., to produce a three phase separation 5) as it may be desirable to mix the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition thoroughly with the sludge so as to modify the wax crystal formation potential of as much of the paraffmic hydrocarbons as can be achieved and also to break any water-in-oil or oil-in-water emulsions which may form so as to produce as clean a three
phase separation 5 as possible. The circulated paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be circulated in the tank using any sufficient method to distribute the paraffmic hydrocarbon isolation composition throughout and amongst the sludge as evenly as possible. Once a proper temperature is achieved, thevessel 10 contents (including the sludge and the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition) may be circulated in an amount between about ten vessel volumes to about thirty vessel volumes. For example, thevessel 10 contents may be circulated in an amount between about ten vessel volumes to about twenty vessel volumes, or alternatively, about ten vessel volumes to about fifteen vessel volumes. Once the desired amount vessel volumes have been recirculated; recirculation, heat, and any agitation may be halted so as to allow the phases to separate into the threephase separation 5. With the benefit of this disclosure, one having ordinary skill in the art will be able to circulate the volume of vessel 10 a sufficient amount for a chosen application. - In embodiments, the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation process may include the use of a cutter. The cutter may be used to reduce the viscosity of the sludge through dilution. The cutter may be any light sweet oil with an API gravity of 30 or greater. Without limitation, for example, the cutter may be light cycle oil, diesel, light sweet crude oil, the like, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the cutter may be the same as the solvent used in the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition. The cutter may be added to the sludge in any ratio. For example, the cutter may be added to the sludge in a sludge:cutter:water ratio of about 4:2:1, where the water represents the total water in the tank including water emulsified with the sludge and any added water which may not be emulsified with sludge. Alternatively, the cutter may be added in a sludge:cutter:water ratio of about 4:4:1 or alternatively a sludge:cutter:water ratio of about 2:2:1. With the benefit of this disclosure, one having ordinary skill in the art will be able to add an appropriate amount of cutter to reduce the viscosity of the sludge a sufficient amount.
- The production of the three
phase separation 5 may take any suitable period of time to complete. In embodiments, the threephase separation 5 may take as long a period of time as it takes to recirculate the desired amount of volumes of the vessel, for example,vessel 10. For example, if a threephase separation 5 uses a ten vessel volume recirculation for the desired separation, the time period to produce the threephase separation 5 is the time suitable to complete the ten volume vessel recirculation. As a result, the period of time sufficient to produce the threephase separation 5 may be dependent upon the size and shape of the vessel, the volume of sludge within the vessel, the recirculation equipment used to recirculate the vessel volume, etc. Further, in addition to the time to recirculate the vessel volume, additional time may be suitable to allow any of the solids, which may be present within the sludge, to settle. In particular, enough time may be provided for the solids to settle out of theparaffinic hydrocarbon layer 15. With the benefit of this disclosure, one having ordinary skill in the art will be able to recognize the appropriate amount of time to apportion for a chosen application. - In embodiments, the purity of a three
phase separation 5 may be measured by lab testing. For example, a “Basic Sediment and Water Test” (“BS&W”) as described by ASTM D1796-11e1 may be used to measure the purity of theparaffmic hydrocarbon layer 15. For example, a volume of organic solvent, for example toluene, may be placed in a centrifuge tube. A volume of theparaffinic hydrocarbon layer 15 equal in volume to the volume of the organic solvent may subsequently be added to the centrifuge tube. After mixing the contents, the centrifuge tube may then be placed in a centrifuge and counterbalanced. The centrifuge tube may then be centrifuged for a sufficient amount of time to allow for layer separation. For example, the centrifuge tube may be centrifuged for about 15 minutes at a centrifugal speed of 1,250 rpm or greater. After centrifugation, the centrifuge tube may be removed and the volume of each individual layer (e.g., theparaffinic hydrocarbon layer 15, thewater layer 20, and the layer of settled water-wet solids 25) may be determined. The BS&W percentage in the removed sample obtained from the paraffinic hydrocarbon layer may then be determined according to the following equation: -
BS&W (%)=[(mL water+mL settled solids)/mL paraffinic hydrocarbons]×100 (eq. 1) - In embodiments, the
paraffmic hydrocarbon layer 15 may be 95% pure or greater, which refers to theparaffinic hydrocarbon layer 15 having a BS&W percentage of 5% or less. In alternative embodiments, theparaffmic hydrocarbon layer 15 may be 98% pure or greater (i.e. BS&W percentage of 2% or less). In further alternative embodiments, theparaffinic hydrocarbon layer 15 may be 99% pure of greater (i.e. BS&W percentage of 1% or less). - In optional embodiments, once the paraffinic hydrocarbons have been removed, the water in the
water layer 20 may be removed and disposed of, for example, at a water treatment facility. The settled water-wet solids 25 may also be removed of and disposed at any facility sufficient for the removal of this class of solids. With the benefit of this disclosure, one having ordinary skill in the art will be able to remove the remaining water and solids from a vessel, for example,vessel 10 in the FIGURE and dispose of the remaining water and solids as appropriate. - In optional embodiments, the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be used in conjunction with other products used to treat industrial equipment. In embodiments, the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be used concurrently with materials which may remove hazardous reactive sulfides, for example, H2S. For example, the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be used in conjunction with mild oxidizers such as methylmorpholine-N-oxide, which may remove hazardous reactive sulfides, for example, H2S and may convert pyrophoric iron sulfides to non-pyrophoric forms. This is but one embodiment and the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition may be used with any such additional treatment compositions, however, care should be taken to use the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition only with compatible additional treatment compositions that may not negatively interfere with the functionality of the paraffmic hydrocarbon isolation composition.
- It should be understood that the compositions and methods are described in terms of “comprising,” “containing,” or “including” various components or steps, the compositions and methods can also “consist essentially of” or “consist of” the various components and steps. Moreover, the indefinite articles “a” or “an,” as used in the claims, are defined herein to mean one or more than one of the element that it introduces.
- For the sake of brevity, only certain ranges are explicitly disclosed herein. However, ranges from any lower limit may be combined with any upper limit to recite a range not explicitly recited, as well as, ranges from any lower limit may be combined with any other lower limit to recite a range not explicitly recited, in the same way, ranges from any upper limit may be combined with any other upper limit to recite a range not explicitly recited. Additionally, whenever a numerical range with a lower limit and an upper limit is disclosed, any number and any included range falling within the range are specifically disclosed. In particular, every range of values (of the form, “from about a to about b,” or, equivalently, “from approximately a to b,” or, equivalently, “from approximately a-b”) disclosed herein is to be understood to set forth every number and range encompassed within the broader range of values even if not explicitly recited. Thus, every point or individual value may serve as its own lower or upper limit combined with any other point or individual value or any other lower or upper limit, to recite a range not explicitly recited.
- Therefore, the present invention is well adapted to attain the ends and advantages mentioned as well as those that are inherent therein. The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as the present invention may be modified and practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. Although individual embodiments are discussed, the invention covers all combinations of all those embodiments. Furthermore, no limitations are intended to the details of construction or design herein shown, other than as described in the claims below. Also, the terms in the claims have their plain, ordinary meaning unless otherwise explicitly and clearly defined by the patentee. It is therefore evident that the particular illustrative embodiments disclosed above may be altered or modified and all such variations are considered within the scope and spirit of the present invention. If there is any conflict in the usages of a word or term in this specification and one or more patent(s) or other documents that may be incorporated herein by reference, the definitions that are consistent with this specification should be adopted.
Claims (20)
1. A paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition comprising:
isopropylamine dodecylbenzene sulfonate;
a surfactant, wherein the surfactant comprises an anionic surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, and a zwitterionic surfactant; and
a solvent.
2. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the anionic surfactant comprises a carboxylate.
3. The composition of claim 2 , wherein the carboxylate comprises trideceth-8 carboxylate.
4. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the nonionic surfactant comprises an ethoxylate.
5. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the zwitterionic surfactant comprises an hydroxysultaine.
6. The composition of claim 1 , wherein the solvent comprises aliphatic hydrocarbons.
7. A paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition comprising:
isopropylamine dodecylbenzene sulfonate;
a nonionic surfactant;
a zwitterionic surfactant; and
a solvent.
8. The paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition of claim 7 , wherein the nonionic surfactant comprises a glycol derivative, ethoxylate, or any combination thereof.
9. The paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition of claim 8 , wherein the nonionic surfactant comprises an ethoxylate.
10. The composition of claim 9 , wherein the solvent comprises aliphatic hydrocarbons.
11. The paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition of claim 7 , wherein the zwitterionic surfactant comprises a betaine, hydroxysultaine, amphoacetate, or any combination thereof.
12. The paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition of claim 11 , wherein the zwitterionic surfactant comprises an hydroxysultaine.
13. The paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition of claim 12 , wherein the solvent comprises aliphatic hydrocarbons.
14. The paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition of claim 7 , further comprising a material that removes reactive sulfides.
15. The paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition of claim 14 , wherein the material that removes reactive sulfides comprises a mild oxidizer.
16. A method of isolating a paraffinic hydrocarbon layer with the composition of claim 1 from a sludge comprising a mixture of paraffinic hydrocarbons, water, and solids, the method comprising:
(A) providing a paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition of claim 1 ;
(B) providing a material that removes reactive sulfides;
(C) contacting the sludge with the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition; and
(D) allowing the paraffinic hydrocarbon isolation composition to separate the sludge into a three-phase separation comprising a paraffinic hydrocarbon layer, a water layer, and a layer of settled solids.
17. The method of claim 16 , wherein the anionic surfactant comprises a carboxylate.
18. The method of claim 16 , wherein the nonionic surfactant comprises an ethoxylate.
19. The method of claim 16 , wherein the zwitterionic surfactant comprises an hydroxysultaine.
20. The method of claim 16 , wherein the solvent comprises aliphatic hydrocarbons.
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2016
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US20170190985A1 (en) | 2017-07-06 |
US10179881B2 (en) | 2019-01-15 |
US20190119581A1 (en) | 2019-04-25 |
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