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Updated: Jun 1, 2026
12:21
Preparation of Monodomain Liquid Crystal Elastomers and Liquid Crystal Elastomer Nanocomposites
Published on: February 6, 2016
Multifunctional poly(citric acid)-based ionic liquid polymer composite for scale control and emulsion stabilization:
Mostafa Y Nassar1, Elbadawy A Kamoun2, Norah Alsadun2
1Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, 31982, Saudi Arabia. mynassar@kfu.edu.sa.
Scientific Reports
|May 30, 2026
Summary
A novel bio-based ionic liquid polymer effectively prevents mineral scale and stabilizes emulsions in high-salinity oilfields. This additive enhances oil recovery and improves operational efficiency, showcasing its potential for challenging environments.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Petroleum Engineering
Background:
- High-salinity oilfield systems face challenges with mineral scale formation and emulsion instability.
- These issues lead to operational inefficiencies and reduced oil recovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize and evaluate a partially bio-based ionic liquid polymer (HPTA-ILP) for simultaneous scale inhibition and emulsion stabilization.
- To assess the polymer's performance under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of poly(2-hydroxypropane-1,2,3-tricarboxylic acid)-based ionic liquid polymer (HPTA-ILP) from citric acid.
- Characterization using FTIR, XRD, and ¹H NMR.
- Dynamic scale loop tests simulating oilfield conditions (190 °F, 1500 psi).
Main Results:
- HPTA-ILP demonstrated effective inhibition of calcium-based scale formation with a minimum inhibitor concentration (MIC) of 200 ppm.
- At 200 ppm, the polymer achieved an 85% emulsion stability index (ESI) and improved oil recovery to 87%.
- Characterization confirmed an amorphous, ionically functionalized polymer network.
Conclusions:
- HPTA-ILP shows significant potential as a multifunctional additive for scale inhibition and emulsion stabilization in high-salinity oilfields.
- The polymer's mechanism involves ion complexation, adsorption, and interfacial stabilization.
- This additive can improve flow assurance and enhance oil recovery performance.
Keywords:
Dynamic scale loop (DSL)Enhanced oil recovery (EOR)Ionic liquid polymer compositeMultifunctional polymerScale inhibitionWater-oil compatibilityMore Related Videos
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