Asphaltene and asphaltene precipitation/deposition

Asphaltenes are polyaromatic and heavy compounds that are soluble and stable in the original conditions of oil reservoirs. Any condition disturbance can result in asphaltene aggregation, precipitation and deposition. This chapter provides general information and knowledge about asphaltene, causes for asphaltene aggregation, and the consequences of asphaltene precipitation and deposition. The typical tools and tests for evaluation of asphaltene behavior as well as asphaltene aggregation mechanisms are briefly described. Then, the field conditions of asphaltene depositions, and corresponding technical and economic difficulties are discussed. A part of this chapter is also dedicated to introduction of the modelling methods for simulation of asphaltene precipitation and deposition.