Research Status and Challenges of Mechanism, Characterization, Performance Evaluation, and Type of Nano-Pour Point Depressants in Waxy Crude Oil

Nano-Pour point depressants have great potential to improve the low-temperature fluidity of waxy crude oil. This Review reviews the recent research progress of nano-pour point depressants in the field of crude oil pour point reduction. The effect and mechanism of nanocomposite pour point depressants are analyzed; the preparation, modification, and microstructure characterization of nanocomposite pour point depressants are introduced; the three main types of nano-pour point depressants, namely, silicon-based, carbon-based, and magnetic metal-based, are introduced; the results of the current research are outlined; and the challenges of the current research and possible directions of future research are also pointed out. The in-depth analysis of nano-pour point depressants and their potential to improve the low-temperature fluidity of waxy crude oil are reviewed in order to thoroughly analyze the mechanism of nano-pour point depressants and to prepare nano-pour point depressants that are more suitable for reducing crude oil coagulation.