Paraffin wax precipitation/deposition and mitigating measures in oil and gas industry: a review

Precipitation and deposition of paraffin wax in pipelines and tubing are critical complications in the development of crude oil in oil and gas industry. Most new information on paraffin wax is dispersed in literature or exists in crania of experts like tacit knowledge. This review paper aims at disseminate the information; bridge some knowledge-gaps by giving a comprehensive review of chemistry of paraffin wax precipitation and deposition; causes and mechanisms as well as detection. It also discussesgeneral effects of paraffin wax deposition and management, including types of remediation measures. Additionally, it sums up a conclusion and proffer valuable recommendations.