Title: Use Of Local Materials as an Inhibitor for Scale Formation in Oil Field Pipelines
Authors: Anthony Ogbaegbe Chikwe, Christian Emelu Okalla, Godswill Ekeh, Damilola Deborah Olaniyan.
Volume: 10
Issue: 4
Pages: 69-86
Publication Date: 2026/04/28
Abstract:
Scale formation and corrosion are major challenges in oilfield pipeline operations, adversely affecting flow assurance, production efficiency, and asset integrity. This study investigates the potential of locally sourced plant-based materials clove and cassava leaf extracts as eco-friendly and cost-effective scale inhibitors for oilfield applications. The extracts were prepared using solvent extraction and characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to identify functional groups responsible for inhibition performance. Experimental evaluation was conducted on produced water, calcium carbonate (CaCO?), barium sulfate (BaSO?), and hybrid scale systems under controlled laboratory conditions. Inhibition efficiency was determined using gravimetric analysis, while corrosion behavior was assessed using mild steel coupon testing. Results showed that both extracts exhibited significant inhibition performance, with efficiencies comparable to conventional synthetic inhibitors, and improved effectiveness at higher concentrations. The inhibition mechanism is primarily attributed to adsorption, chelation, and interference with crystal nucleation and growth. Corrosion tests revealed reduced metal loss in treated systems compared to untreated samples. Economic analysis further demonstrated that the local inhibitors offer substantial cost advantages with favorable cost-benefit ratios. Overall, the findings establish clove and cassava leaf extracts as sustainable, environmentally friendly alternatives for mitigating scale formation and corrosion in oilfield pipelines.