Ignacio Layrisse

Influence of Crude Oil and Surfactant Concentration on the Rheology and Flowing Properties of Heavy Crude Oil-in-Water Emulsions

Emulsions of heavy crude oil-in-water were formed at room temperature using a turbine mixer with Triton X-100 and RW-150 as emulsifiers. The emulsions were prepared by changing the oil type, the surfactant concentration and the disperse phase volume. The rheological characteristics were studied using a concentric cylinder viscometer, and the particle size and its distribution was determined with a Coulter Counter. Emulsions of the heavier oil were formed in an agitated tank with tap water and brine. These emulsions were pumped in a 0.5 in. diameter test-loop in order to determine its effective viscosity and Fanning friction factor.