BRIN develops xanthan gum for more efficient oil and gas production

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) is developing an industrial additive called xanthan gum to improve the efficiency of oil and gas production processes in Indonesia.

BRIN Head Arif Satria, during the BRIN Goes To Industry III event in Jakarta on Thursday, emphasised that the utilisation of xanthan gum is expected to enhance national energy independence.

Arif highlighted that the national oil consumption, amounting to 1.6 million barrels per day, must not fully depend on imported fuels.

He explained that BRIN has mastered the independent production process of xanthan gum. Therefore, Arif hopes that through this industry engagement event, the research outcomes will not remain confined to the laboratory but can be scaled up and penetrate the market.

“Do not let BRIN conduct research that turns out to be purely imaginative or researcher-centric, and then when it’s finished, the industry does not need it. That is what we must avoid,” said Arif Satria.

It is known that xanthan gum plays a crucial role as a thickener, emulsifier, and viscosity controller, which is highly needed in various sectors.

In the energy industry, particularly in oil drilling, xanthan gum serves as a drilling additive to maintain fluid stability, prevent pipe blockages, and increase drilling process efficiency.

The xanthan gum product developed by BRIN comes in the form of a free-flowing cream-brown powder that is stable and safe to use, making it easy to apply in various production lines.

With its superior rheological properties, this research and innovation outcome opens up significant opportunities for industry collaboration to strengthen supply chains and sustainable innovation.