Hydrate formation and particle distributions in water-dominated and partially - dispersed systems

The work in this thesis provides valuable new and direct insights into hydrate plug formation processes in water-dominant and partially-dispersed systems, which are particularly relevant to industrial production scenarios in late-field life. This was achieved by conducting an extensive set of high-pressure experiments in specialised autoclaves. This work has confirmed particle distribution and bedding as critical factors associated with hydrate plugging in water dominated systems, and has developed a comprehensive description of plugging in partially-dispersed oil-water scenarios. These results could help industry extend the production life of existing developments by reducing the cost of inhibition in high water cut fields.