Theoretical investigation of asphaltene molecules in crude oil viscoelasticity enhancement

Understanding the mechanisms of viscosity enhancement in crude oil phases is crucial for optimizing extraction and transportation processes. The enhanced viscosity mechanism of crude oil phase can be attributed to the intricate intermolecular interactions between asphaltene molecules. However, the molecular mechanism of the viscosification of asphaltene molecules in crude oil is not yet to be fully understood. In this work, molecular dynamics simulations were employed to investigate the dynamic behavior and viscosification mechanism of asphaltene molecules in complex oil phases. Research suggests that the neutral surface of asphaltenes features abundant positive and negative electrostatic potential regions, facilitating complementary pairing between these areas. This significantly augments electrostatic interactions among asphaltene molecules. Besides, the expansive nonpolar expanse on the normal asphaltene surface facilitates interactions between asphaltenes and crude oil molecules. This leads the crude oil viscosity of the system containing normal asphaltene is higher than that of the system containing acidic asphaltene under the same mass fraction (382 mu Pa & sdot;s for AAsp and 416 mu Pa & sdot;s for NAsp). This work provides insight into the viscosity enhancement mechanisms in crude oil phases and is helpful in improving the efficiency of crude oil extraction and transportation.

Automated summary

Understanding the mechanisms of viscosity enhancement in crude oil phases is crucial for optimizing extraction and transportation processes. This study employed molecular dynamics simulations to investigate the behavior and viscosification mechanism of asphaltene molecules in complex oil phases. The research suggests that electrostatic interactions and interactions between asphaltene and crude oil molecules contribute to the enhanced viscosity. The findings provide insight into the viscosity enhancement mechanisms in crude oil phases.