Alternative Product Treatments for Asphaltene Stabilization: A Systematic Review of Scientific Literature from 2014-2023

Abstract

Asphaltene deposition is a problem that occurs in oil operations, affecting most types of crude oil. Inhibitor/dispersant products are used to address this issue. A systematic review of scientific literature was conducted to analyze alternative products evaluated between 2014 and 2023, as well as the characteristics of the published research. Google Scholar was used along with inclusion and exclusion criteria according to the PRISMA statement, resulting in a total of 24 articles. Venezuela stands out with the highest production of research. Synthetic products were more commonly used (ionic liquids, resins, and metallic nanoparticles), and among natural products, vegetable oils were prominent. The main testing methods were optical microscopy and absorbance. The analyses were primarily based on description/comparison, and four vegetable oils and five synthetic products were found to have efficiencies greater than 75%. The need for research with natural products is highlighted, as they are more easily obtainable, less expensive, and environmentally friendly.