ANALYTICAL INVESTIGATION OF ORANGE LEAF EXTRACT-BASED SCALE INHIBITOR FOR PREVENTING CALCIUM CARBONATE PRECIPITATION IN OIL RESERVOIRS AND PRODUCTION EQUIPMENT

This study examines the use of orange leaf extract as a sustainable scale inhibitor for controlling calcium carbonate (CaCO3) formation in synthetic produced water, a major issue in the oil industry. Scaling, primarily due to CaCO3 precipitation, can cause significant operational inefficiencies, pipe blockages, and equipment damage. The experiment evaluated the efficacy of orange leaf extract across a range of concentrations (0 to 250 μl) and temperatures (30°C, 40°C, and 50°C). Results indicated that the extract inhibited CaCO3 formation effectively, achieving up to 100% inhibition at concentrations of 200 μl and 250 μl. Higher concentrations of the extract were associated with increased levels of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), suggesting the extract’s ability to maintain CaCO3 ions in solution. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy revealed hydroxyl and alkene groups in the extract, which are likely instrumental in the scale inhibition mechanism. These groups interact with calcium ions to hinder crystal growth, thereby reducing CaCO3 deposition. These findings support orange leaf extract as an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional synthetic scale inhibitors, which are often toxic and non-biodegradable. The efficacy and temperature stability demonstrated by this green inhibitor present a valuable opportunity for the oil industry to reduce its environmental impact while managing scaling issues efficiently. As the industry increasingly shifts toward sustainable practices, the use of plant-based inhibitors like orange leaf extract could offer a cost-effective, biodegradable solution for scale control, aligning with both operational efficiency and environmental standards.