Gas Hydrate Formation: Impact on Oil and Gas Production and Prevention Strategies

Formation of gas hydrates in oil and gas production systems continue to pose a serious concern particularly in the offshore environment. The formation and possible deposition of hydrates usually occur specifically as gaseous component of reservoir fluid interact with water molecules. Consequently, hydrates problems are commonly encountered during normal multiphase flow and the problem is often more significant in transient operations. Many researchers have extensively studied this subject, yet the extent to which the properties of reservoir fluids interact is still on-going, especially at low temperatures and high pressures. The fundamental technological features of hydrate formation and decomposition or dissociation processes have been poorly understood. Therefore, this paper studied and described the general phenomenon in which hydrates' formation occurs. It also discussed the mechanisms and analyzed the influencing factors that contributed to the formation of hydrates. The new remediation and prevention techniques for hydrates formation and blockages have been reviewed. The technical issues, level of protection, associated risks, and cost impacts were included in evaluating the techniques. The conclusion obtained from this research shows that further works are required to acquire substantial data for the development a new and robust prevention and control strategies, while improving the existing ones for optimum production, transportation and storage of oil and gas products