Physicochemical properties of crude oils

Abstract

Physicochemical properties and components of crude oils affecting their corrosiveness are described. Corrosiveness of crude oils is defined by water and salt content, total sulfur content, total acid number, microorganisms, and conditions (temperature, flow regime, etc.). Not all sulfur compounds and acids are corrosive to metals. Hydrogen sulfide is most corrosive among sulfur substances. The corrosiveness of crude oil containing water can be determined by a combination of three properties: the type of emulsion formed between oil and water, the wettability of the steel surface, and the corrosiveness of aqueous phase in the presence of oil. A case study with analysis and solution is given.