A novel in-line fibre-optic sensor for the detection of hydrate inhibitors within the oil and gas industry

G.R. McDowell, M. Uttamlal, A.S. Holmes-Smith, A. Graham

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceeding › Conference contribution

    102 Downloads (Pure)

    Abstract

    An in-line fibre-optic fluorescence-based sensing methodology for the detection of two common thermodynamic hydrate inhibitors (THI), monoethylene glycol (MEG) and methanol (MeOH), used in the oil and gas industry has been developed. The fluorescence properties of two solvatochromic indicator probes were determined with varying ratios of THIs within oil-in-water mixtures. Sensor performance was evaluated for varying oil type, oil concentration and solution salinity to mimic the chemical composition of an oil flow line. Finally, an inline sensing capability was demonstrated using a purpose built industrial flow loop system with the results obtained showing that the concentration of known THIs can be determined to within 5% in the 0-50% THI concentration range. This measurement method has opened up the possibility of controlling hydrate inhibitor concentration in real-time, leading to improved flow assurance and substantial economic benefits.
    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationIEEE SENSORS, 2016
    PublisherIEEE
    ISBN (Electronic)9781479982875
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 9 Jan 2017
    EventIEEE Sensors 2016 - Orlando, Orlando, United States
    Duration: 30 Oct 2016 → 3 Nov 2016
    http://ieee-sensors2016.org/

    Conference

    ConferenceIEEE Sensors 2016
    CountryUnited States
    CityOrlando
    Period30/10/16 → 3/11/16
    Internet address

    Keywords

    • chemical sensor
    • oils
    • pipelines
    • temperature measurement
    • monitoring

    Documents and Links

    • McDowell, G.R. et al (2017) IEEE SENSORS 2016 proceedings paper

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      Accepted author manuscript, 493 KB

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