Customer formulation support

We can support our customers in developing their formulations. Using our expertise, we can help to develop a surfactant combination that results in an ultra-low interfacial tension (IFT) with the crude, which is essential for good oil recovery.

Crude-oil parameters, like total acid number (TAN) and viscosity, may be taken into account when formulating, as well as brine composition - salinity and presence of di-valent ions such as Ca and Mg. The specific reservoir conditions, such as temperature, permeability and rock type, as well as practical considerations such as the availability of fresh water or softened (saline) water, will also need to be discussed. Flood performance testing, using the customer’s crude-oil and brine under the prevailing reservoir conditions, can be offered.

Additional practical considerations to include are the constraints posed by the location. For example, off-shore locations often have lmited storage space, weight and power.

Concentrated ENORDET surfactant blends

To simplify operations in the field, it may be preferable to ship the surfactant system as a concentrated blend rather than ship the single surfactants.

In these circumstamces, Shell Chemicals can develop a customer-specific, concentrated blend. The parameters to be taken into account will be discussed with the customer. These can include prevailing climate, storage options, logistic challenges (eg off-shore supply), modes of shipment, product unloading and mixing in the water stream. Given the many possibilities, blend development will need to be done in close collaboration with the customer.

If you would like to discuss formulation options please contact us.