Chemical Inhibitors in Gas Hydrate Formation: A Review of Modelling Approaches

Gas hydrate inhibition using chemicals has been under continuous investigation, and several modelling studies have been published since its inception. Since it is not always feasible to conduct experimental research, it is especially crucial to forecast the conditions under which gas hydrates may form and dissociate in the presence of chemical inhibitors. As a result, a reliable forecasting tool is vital. This article provides an exhaustive review of various modelling methodologies in the context of gas hydrate chemical inhibition. The key aspects of empirical models, thermodynamic models, kinetic models, artificial intelligence-based models and quantum chemistry-based models are presented. Critical analysis of each modelling approach has been performed, highlighting strengths, limitations, and areas where further investigations are still crucial. Rapid progress has been made with respect to gas hydrate modelling approaches in the context of chemical inhibition; however, further research is still vital to bridge the gaps that have been identified in this review. Potential improvements to existing models have been proposed, particularly in terms of integrating experimental data and utilizing hybrid approaches, which could serve as valuable future directions for the field.