Formulation of terpolymers based on alkyl acrylates employed as antifoaming of gasified heavy and super-heavy crude oils

Abstract

The present invention is related to the application of terpolymers based on alkyl acrylates as defoamers of gasified crude oils, with densities between 10 and 40° API. The evaluation of terpolymers based on alkyl acrylates at conditions similar to those of gas-liquid separators has shown that the terpolymers are efficient as inhibitors of the foam formation in heavy and super-heavy crude oil, abating the foam between 15 and 50% faster than in non-dosed crude oil (blank). Even some acrylic terpolymers exhibited a greater efficiency as defoamers than that of commercial silicon-based polymers, which promoting the defoaming only 20-25% faster than the blank collapse. The employ of silicones as defoamers presents serious problems as the formation of deposits and the deactivation of catalysts in the refining processes. This situation has provoked that refineries in Mexico and a worldwide ban the application of this kind of inorganic polymers, and new silicon-free defoaming agents are required. Therefore, the new silicon free defoamers object of this invention represent an advantageous option to replace the silicon based defoamers employed nowadays by the petroleum industry.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.