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Fouling Focus
Fig . 4 . Element map from SEM showing the association of Si ( left ) with O ( right )
composition , several second-level tests are possible . In the author ’ s experience , these tests are required < 10 % of the time . ( 1 ) Carbon as Carbonate . This will help distinguish organic carbon from inorganic , and account for some of the unknown mass as oxygen .
( 2 ) Sulfur Forms . Can be used to differentiate organic sulfur from inorganic ( pyritic sulfur , sulfates ). ( 3 ) Neutron Activation Analysis – To measure oxygen accurately .
( 4 ) X-Ray Diffraction . To identify specific crystalline compounds or phases of crystalline compounds ( e . g ., the form of iron sulfide ).
Summary Accurate quantification of a fouling deposit allows us to pinpoint the dominant fouling mechanism , trace the sources of precursors , and take the most cost-effective mitigation actions . To get good quantification requires the recommended sample preparation step , followed by two first-level tests – TGA and Elemental Analysis . These cover 90-95 %+ of the deposits . In 5-10 % of cases second-level testing might be required . Those wishing to conduct the analysis recommended here can find substantial more detail in the Reference .
Coming up in Part 3
In Part 3 , we will look at how to combine deposit analysis and operating conditions , including feed testing , to pinpoint the active fouling mechanisms .
References
[ 1 ] Joshi , H . M ., in Crude Oil Fouling – Deposit Characterization , Measurements , and Modeling , Coletti , F ., and Hewitt , G . F ., Editors , pp 95-113 , Elsevier Inc ., 2015 .
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