Gas clathrate hydrates are crystalline compounds composed of a three-dimensional network of hydrogen-bonded water cages that can encapsulate small gas molecules (e.g., methane or propane) at high pressure and low temperature conditions. The interfacial properties of clathrate hydrates are important in controlling the formation and dispersion of hydrate particles for all energy applications, from hydrates in flow assurance, which requires flow in deepwater oil and gas flowlines, to hydrate energy technologies, such as storage and recovery of fuels. This paper will discuss the state-of-the-art of hydrate interfacial property measurements and the methods by which the interfacial properties can be modified/controlled. Hydrate particle interactions and hydrate surface wettability were evaluated at both ambient and high pressure conditions in continuous liquid hydrocarbon systems using micromechanical force apparatuses and by contact angle measurements. In addition, the influence of these properties on water-in-oil emulsion stability and hydrate dispersion was investigated using high pressure differential scanning calorimetry, particle visualization techniques, and slurry viscosity measurements. Such an interfacial properties approach enables the elucidation of the effect of natural and synthetic surface active molecules on delaying or promoting the hydrate nucleation and growth processes, reducing the inter-particle interactions, and ultimately provides the ability to predict hydrate formation and particle dispersion over a range of different conditions.

Interfacial properties and controls of gas clathrate hydrates

2019 Fall National Meeting

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