A Minireview and Perspective on Electrical Methods for Enhancing the Flow of Waxy Crude Oils

Electrical treatment is increasingly recognized as an innovative, low-carbon, and efficient method for improving the cold flowability of waxy crude oils. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of recent advances in understanding the interactions between electric fields and waxy crude oils. It begins with an overview of early studies that demonstrated the feasibility of using electric fields to reduce the viscosity of waxy crude oils, then surveys in detail the influence of key parameters─such as field strength, orientation, and type (AC vs DC)─alongside temperature, shear rate, and oil composition on the treatment performance. The review also highlights findings from pilot-scale tests and ongoing research into the underlying mechanisms responsible for the observed effects, including wax particle aggregation, interfacial polarization, phase separation, and Maxwell stress. The review concludes by outlining key future research directions, including evaluating the influence of wax control chemicals on the electrorheological behavior of waxy crude oils, deepening insight into microscale mechanisms, exploring the application of electric fields in multiphase flow systems, and assessing the impact of electrical treatment on wax deposition. Progress in these areas is essential for bridging the gap between laboratory findings and real-world applications in the production and transportation of waxy crude oils.