Apples to aid Kazakhstan's Oil extraction efforts
Kazakh scientists have developed an environmentally friendly method to stop or slow down the corrosion of oil extraction equipment using apple pectin. Although practical trials of this new method have not yet been conducted, it has the potential to significantly enhance the efficiency and ecological sustainability of the oil industry, which is particularly important for Kazakhstan, where oil production plays a key role in the economy.
Oil extraction brings substantial revenue to the country but also creates environmental issues, such as oil spills, making the resolution of corrosion problems critically important. This issue is especially relevant for large fields like Kashagan, where oil contains high levels of sulfur and its compounds, which accelerate corrosion.
Researchers from the East Kazakhstan Technical University, in collaboration with the Baltic Federal University, have created a coating to protect oil pipelines from corrosion, utilizing copper-silver microparticles and apple pectin as a stabilizer. These materials bind sulfur-containing compounds, preventing corrosion, while the natural pectin reduces the number of toxic substances and is biodegradable.
Expert Askar Ismailov argues that using pectin in anti-corrosion coatings could lower the cost of pipelines as well as operational expenses. However, he emphasizes that widespread adoption of this technology may take 5-6 years, as many companies have already purchased equipment, and time will be needed for testing and assessing economic effectiveness.
In summary, the development of an eco-friendly anti-corrosion coating made from apple pectin represents a promising solution for Kazakhstan's oil sector, contributing not only to economic benefits but also to environmental protection.
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