Johan Sjöblom: "Crude Oil Emulsions and Model Emulsions"

Abstract:

Crude Oil based water-in-oil emulsions are central in causing severe problems in flow assurance and separation offshore. These problems can in worst cases cause irregularities in production and transport with severe economic consequences. In order to remediate the problem fundamental knowledge of the underlying mechanisms is required. For this purpose we have developed model emulsions based on synthetic components that can mimic interactions in the true crude oil systems. The model compounds are presented together with fundamental physico-chemical properties.

Focus is directed towards self-association in bulk, behaviour at w/o interfaces and adsorption at solid surfaces. The comparative experimental matrix involves interfacial tensions, LB films, pH effects, calorimetry and simulations (MD and DPD). Dynamic surfactant adsorption is used to complete the coalescence picture in dense packed layers (DPL). Process parameters like sedimentation and coalescence is followed by means of low-frequency NMR measurements.

The conclusion is that model compounds can be used to follow and mimic complex interactions in true crude oil based emulsions.