New Nanoscale Particle to Prevent Scaling

 


Scientists have developed a new nanoparticle that can prevent scaling and stabilize a liquid mixture. This would make the oil extraction process more efficient and environmentally friendly. The material can be used with other devices that handle water-oil emulsions.

Amir Sheikhi is an associate professor of chemical engineering. He reports, “ We aimed to tackle the challenge of calcium carbonate formation, known as scaling, in two phase oil/water systems, dealt with numerous water based in industries, such as oil and gas sectors.” 

Two phase systems are used in many industries,  from oil and gas, to even food and cosmetics. Water coexists with an immiscible phase. An example is an oil or organic solvent that will not mix with water. If this system undergoes sealing, it will cause serious operational hazards.

Sheikhi reports, “ Current anti-scaling solutions either have adverse environmental impacts or are limited to working only in single phase aqueous media.” 

Sheikhi and his team created a cellulose based nanoparticle. It is called an anionic hairy cellulose nanocrystal (AHCNC). This particle was capable of intercepting scale formation. It also stabilizes water-in-oil mixtures, which is the basis of the oil extraction process. 

Sheikhi reports, “ Our innovation lies in the nanoengineering of a type of nanoparticle- AmHCNC- that simultaneously prevent scaling and stabilizes water in oil emulsion via the Pickering mechanism- a combination that hasn’t been achieved.” The Pickering Mechanism is a process that stabilizes the interface between two immiscible solvents with small solid particles, like nanoparticles. 

Sheikhi continues, “ These anti-scaling particles are bio based, environmentally safe and cost-effective, offering a sustainable solution to the long-standing industrial problem of scaling.” 

Researchers are looking to scale up their study, to test their technology in real world settings, like enhanced oil recovery

Sheikhi summarizes, “ This technology may provide new opportunities for sustainable and safer industrial practices.” 

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