The selection of corrosion inhibitors for field use is often based on laboratory and field testing of candidate products. At present, there are no universally accepted tests to compare the performance and other properties of candidate products. This paper describes a test protocol that can help inhibitor users with the testing and selection of inhibitors for use against CO2/H2S corrosion in oil and gas production, and that allows the screening of a large number of candidates, in a relatively
cost-effective manner. The selection is based on two criteria: performance (effectiveness) against corrosion at the expected conditions, and compatibility with the injection and production systems, and with other chemicals. Performance is mostly affected by two factors: temperature, and to a lesser extent flow velocity. On that basis, three levels of increasing testing requirements have been defined: conditions green, yellow, and red. Under mild or well-established conditions (low
pressure and temperature, existing operations) performance testing may not be required; however, compatibility testing is always recommended.
Key Words: Corrosion, inhibition, testing, CO2, H2S, pipelines, electrochemical, laboratory, standards