Unusual synergy effect on methane hydrate inhibition when ionic liquid meets polymer†
Abstract
We report the concept of combining ionic liquids (ILs) with polymer inhibitors to more effectively inhibit methane hydrate formation. The new inhibitors extended the induction time and decreased the growth rate of the hydrate. It was found that the presence of a hydroxyl group on IL provided the most powerful inhibition effect by forming hydrogen bonds between IL and water molecules.