News and media releases

Improved polymer from Degussa for offshore flexible pipes

05/02/2008

Transporting oil and gas from subsea fields using flexible pipes is expected to become more cost-effective, thanks to the development of a new material that offers better long-term chemical stability in the carbon-dioxide-rich offshore conditions.

A new grade of polyamide, PA-12, which outperformed the currently used PA-11 in disciplined testing, has been developed by Degussa (a German-based speciality chemical corporation) and targeted for use in flexible pipes offshore.

Research carried out by Shell Global Solutions generated data that showed PA-12 performed better than PA-11 in tests to look at how both polymers degraded in oxygen-free and in acidic water. The Shell Global Solutions non-metallic materials team worked on the complex-ageing-behaviour study to generate key data that enabled Degussa to obtain the essential API and ISO specifications necessary for Lloyd’s Register approval.

Christian Baron, Vice President, Strategic Projects, Degussa AG, says, “Shell Global Solutions’ expertise played a vital role in API and ISO qualification of our new polymer.”

Compared with its predecessor, the new material can be used for longer periods and at higher temperatures before it begins to degrade. It should also introduce more competition into the market to the benefit of all end-users.

Contact: Frans Janssen