AP26194947 – Environmentally friendly deep eutectic solvents as new innovative inhibitors of asphaltene precipitation

Objective of the project – to develop new innovative inhibitors for the splitting of asphaltenes in oil to prevent problems associated with extraction, processing and transportation.

Relevance: The relevance of this project is driven by the urgent need to address asphaltene deposition problems that significantly hinder oil production, processing, and transportation. Existing inhibitors are often toxic, expensive, and ineffective under harsh reservoir conditions such as high temperature and high salinity, which limits their practical application. At the same time, environmental concerns are increasing, requiring the development of safer and more sustainable chemical solutions in the petrochemical industry. The proposed use of environmentally friendly deep eutectic solvents offers a promising alternative due to their low toxicity, biodegradability, and cost-effectiveness. These “green solvents” can improve both the efficiency of asphaltene inhibition and the environmental safety of oil processing operations. Therefore, the project is highly relevant as it combines technological innovation with sustainable development goals and supports the advancement of Kazakhstan’s oil and gas industry.

Scientific supervisor: Ph.D., Associate Professor, Islam Sholpan Saparbaykyzy

Expected and achieved results: The project has resulted in the successful synthesis of new deep eutectic solvents (DES) based on betaine and choline chloride, obtained across a wide range of molar ratios. Their key physicochemical properties, including solubility, melting point, and thermal stability, have been determined. For the first time, the influence of donor–acceptor pair structures on the formation and stability of eutectic systems has been identified. Environmentally safe DES formulations have been developed specifically for inhibiting asphaltene precipitation. A simple and energy-efficient synthesis process has been designed, operating at moderate temperatures and atmospheric pressure. The developed DES demonstrate high dissolving capacity and thermal stability, making them suitable for industrial applications. Their application has shown a reduction in asphaltene precipitation by 30–50%, significantly improving oil stability. As a result, the formation of deposits in pipelines and equipment is reduced. This leads to lower operational costs and increased reliability of oil transportation systems. Overall, the project demonstrates both technological effectiveness and economic and environmental advantages of using DES-based inhibitors.