<![CDATA[The decline in oil production at Pertamina EP Sangasanga Field X is primarily attributed to the formation of highly stable water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions, which significantly increase fluid viscosity (500–1,000 fold), raise pumping costs, and induce corrosion in production equipment and pipelines. This stability is driven by naturally occurring surface-active compounds—specifically asphaltenes (0.084%) and wax (5.43%)—that form a rigid interfacial film acting as a mechanical barrier against droplet coalescence. This research aims to identify the most effective demulsifier formula and concentration for breaking stable W/O emulsions and reducing Basic Sediment and Water (BS&W) levels to below 0.5%. Laboratory testing was conducted using the bottle test method (ASTM D96) at five demulsifier formulations at concentrations ranging from 0 to 100 ppm and settling times of 10 to 60 minutes. Final BS&W levels were verified using the centrifugation method (ASTM D4007). The results demonstrate that Formula 3 –composed of diepoxide, amine derivative, and polyacrylate– at a concentration of 100 ppm, exhibited the highest separation rate constant (k = 0.653 min⁻¹) and achieved a final BS&W of 0.4%, meeting the Pertamina RU V Balikpapan standard of <0.5%, with a removal efficiency of 95.82% after 60 minutes. These findings contribute to the development of location, specific demulsification strategies for waxy crude oils, highlighting the critical role of wax content –not merely asphaltene– in emulsion stability. The research also identifies a concentration saturation point beyond 100 ppm, where re-emulsification occurs, providing important practical guidance for field operations.]]>
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