Desulfurization of east baghdad crude oil using pre-prepared alumina nanofluid and direct mixing approach: a comparative study

Abstract

This study investigates the efficiency of two alumina-based nanofluid systems in desulfurizing heavy crude oil from the East Baghdad field. The first system employs a pre-prepared nanofluid, in which alumina nanoparticles and SDBS surfactant are ultrasonically dispersed in kerosene before introduction into the crude. The second system involves direct mixing of the same components without prior dispersion. Experiments conducted between 20 °C and 75 °C for 15–60 min revealed a significantly greater sulfur reduction in the pre-prepared nanofluid, achieving up to 82% sulfur removal, compared with 63% for the directly mixed system. The enhanced performance is attributed to improved particle dispersion, higher surface activity, and efficient adsorption of organosulfur compounds. These findings demonstrate the critical influence of nanofluid preparation on the physicochemical upgrading of heavy crude oils.

Keywords

Desulfurization / Alumina nanofluid / Ultrasonic treatment / Heavy crude oil / Nanofluid preparation

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