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Depth profiling (ICP-MS) study of trace metal 'grains' in solid asphaltenes
Avin E Pillay1, Ghada Bassioni, Sasi Stephen
1Department of Chemistry, The Petroleum Institute, Abu Dhabi, UAE. apillay@pi.ac.ae
Journal of the American Society for Mass Spectrometry
|September 29, 2011
Summary
Trace metals in asphaltenes form non-uniformly, with agglomerations suggesting specific formation conditions. Understanding these metal grains aids crude oil processing and reveals insights into asphaltene behavior and scale formation.
Area of Science:
- Petroleum Geochemistry
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Trace metals in asphaltenes are crucial for understanding crude oil refining and processing.
- Metal accumulation in asphaltenes varies significantly between oil wells due to interactions with source rocks, mineral matter, and formation water.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the distribution and characteristics of trace metal 'grains' within asphaltene matrices.
- To explore the potential implications of metal distribution for oil processing and asphaltene behavior.
Main Methods:
- High-performance Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) laser depth profiling (213 nm) was used.
- Samples were analyzed to depths of 50 μm at 5 μm intervals, measuring ten metal profiles (Na, Mg, Al, Mn, Fe, Zn, Sr, Pb, V, Ni).
Main Results:
- Trace metals exhibit non-uniform distribution within asphaltenes, with identified areas of metal agglomeration.
- Experimental data suggest specific chemical and physical conditions within asphaltene structures favor metal grain formation.
- Solid asphaltenes were identified as potential precursors to scale formation.
Conclusions:
- The study provides valuable insights into the heterogeneous distribution of trace metals in asphaltenes.
- Further research, including mathematical modeling, is needed to elucidate the exact mechanisms of metal grain formation.
- Asphaltene characterization offers potential for predicting and mitigating scale formation in petroleum operations.
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