Oil&Gas Damage Mechanisms

Corrosion in the oil and gas industry arises from the complex interaction of various corrosive agents, including hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), carbon dioxide (CO₂), chlorides, oxygen, and water within production systems. This chapter provides a detailed analysis of the primary damage mechanisms, categorized into sweet, sour, and oxygen corrosion. Additionally, it will address other critical damage mechanisms, such as microbiologically influenced corrosion and cracking phenomena. Each section will delve into the fundamental principles behind these corrosion mechanisms, along with the mitigation strategies, predictive methodologies, and calculation tools that are essential for effectively managing corrosion risks.
CO₂ / H₂S Corrosion

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) corrosion, commonly referred to as sweet corrosion, is driven by CO₂ and involves the formation of carbonic acid upon contact with water. It is frequently encountered in oil and gas production and transmission systems and can occur simultaneously with the presence of hydrogen sulfide (H₂S). Individually, these acid gases, when dissolved in water, can initiate corrosion reactions on metal surfaces, leading to material degradation over time. However, the combined effect of CO₂/H₂S corrosion is far more complex and still poses significant risks to pipeline and equipment integrity, potentially leading to leaks, unplanned shutdowns, safety incidents, environmental impact, and costly repairs. Therefore, effective corrosion management strategies including proper corrosion modelling followed by material selection, chemical inhibition etc. are essential to maintaining safe and efficient oil and gas operations.

CO2 Corrosion

Carbon dioxide corrosion, also known as sweet corrosion, is driven by CO2 and involves the formation of carbonic acid when contact with water. This acid attacks metal surfaces, leading to material degradation over time. Sweet corrosion is commonly found in gas-condensate and oil production systems as well as in produced water handling areas. It poses a serious threat to the integrity of pipelines and production equipment in oil and gas fields, potentially leading to leaks, production shutdowns, environmental damage, and costly repairs. Effective corrosion management strategies such as material selection and the use of inhibition, are essential to maintaining safe and efficient oil and gas operations

Sour Corrosion