Wax diffusivity under given thermal gradient: a mathematical model

In this paper we describe how to obtain wax diffusivity and solubility in a saturated crude oil using the measurements of solid wax deposit in the experimental apparatus known as cold finger.Assuming that migration of dissolved wax is primarily driven by thermal gradients, a mathematical model is derived relating the deposit growth rate to the above mentioned quantities. We investigate the case in which the oil is not agitated. Comparisons with available experimental data are performed and possible sources of errors are discussed.