Many thermodynamic changes occur in reservoir rock when oil is produced. These changes enable scale formation on micrometric rock pores that can block them and impede/block oil extraction. Antiscale treatment efficiency depends on minimal inhibitor concentration and product release rate in fluids downhole. In this context, we have studied two encapsulation techniques allowing us to have a sustainable release system composed of an anionic polyelectrolyte as a model additive. The first formulation consists in formation of polyelectrolyte complexes nanoparticles. In this system, active ingredient release was stimulated through medium ionic strength modulation. Under basic conditions, release takes place in particles swelling/dissociation process; whereas, under acidic condition, particles precipitate and no release can be expected. The second system we have worked on is a diluted reverse (W/O) emulsion, in which dispersed aqueous droplets contain a model additive. These systems are stable and small additive percentage is released under mechanic strain.
