Degradation and lifetime prediction of polymers in subsea and offshore infrastructures
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SPE WA GAIA and Facility Seminar
SPE WA GAIA and SPE WA Facilities are jointly hosting a seminar at the new Pulse Technology Hub on the 19th August, 5.30pm start.
The Talk
Offshore infrastructure depends heavily on synthetic polymers and plastics due to their durability and resistance to corrosion and other environmental stimuli. However, their degradation in deep marine environments remains poorly understood, making lifespan predictions uncertain. This talk will focus on pertinent literature on the degradation of plastics and synthetic polymers in marine environments to gain insight into the fate of these materials when left in subsea conditions. We will discuss the important depth-dependent physicochemical parameters and how to account for them in predicting the lifespan of synthetic plastics and the possible formation of plastic debris.
As subsea infrastructures reach the end of their service life, managing the plastic components becomes crucial for environmental and regulatory stakeholders. Therefore, through a case study, we will highlight the disconnect between lab tests, models, and real-world performance, concluding with a forward-looking strategy to enhance service life and improve degradation predictions.
The Speaker
Dr Ibukun Oluwoye is a Research Fellow at the Curtin University Corrosion Centre and has a passion for solving real-world challenges in materials science and environmental sustainability. His research explores what happens to polymers and composites in harsh subsea environments, helping industries make smarter decisions about offshore decommissioning. Ibukun has also developed recycling pathways and innovative approaches to reduce environmental impacts from legacy infrastructure. During a fellowship in Japan, he worked on tackling plastic pollution by creating affordable membrane technologies for microplastic removal in water systems. He’s driven by the idea of blending science and practical solutions to create a more sustainable future. He has a PhD in Engineering from Murdoch University