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Updated: May 28, 2026
10:38
Measurement of the Rheology of Crude Oil in Equilibrium with CO2 at Reservoir Conditions
Published on: June 6, 2017
Heavy crude oils/particle stabilized emulsions
Iva Kralova1, Johan Sjöblom, Gisle Øye
1Ugelstad Laboratory, Norwegian University of Sciences and Technology (NTNU), Department of Chemical Engineering, Sem Sælandsvei 4, N-7491 Trondheim, Norway. iva.kralova@chemeng.ntnu.no
Advances in Colloid and Interface Science
|November 4, 2011
Summary
Optimized methods enhance crude oil emulsion separation offshore. The study focused on particle stabilization and coalescence using advanced analytical techniques for improved fluid characterization.
Area of Science:
- Petroleum Engineering
- Colloid and Surface Science
- Process Design
Background:
- Offshore crude oil processing requires advanced fluid characterization for efficient process design.
- Water-in-oil (w/o) emulsions present significant challenges due to destabilization processes like creaming and flocculation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and optimize modern methods for crude oil fluid characterization, focusing on w/o emulsion destabilization.
- To investigate particle stabilization mechanisms and enhance coalescence in emulsified crude oil systems.
Main Methods:
- Improved separation devices were utilized to promote coalescence of emulsified systems.
- Investigated the role of various particles (silica nanoparticles, asphalthenes, wax) in emulsion stabilization.
- Employed advanced analytical techniques including SARA fractionation, NIR, electro-coalescers, Langmuir technique, pendant drop, TG-QCM, and AFM.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated enhanced coalescence of w/o emulsions through improved separation technology.
- Identified specific particle behaviors (silica nanoparticles, asphalthenes, wax) influencing emulsion stability.
- Quantified critical electric fields for electro-coalescence and characterized particle-stabilizing properties.
Conclusions:
- Optimized methods and improved devices can effectively destabilize and separate w/o emulsions in crude oil applications.
- Understanding particle stabilization is crucial for successful fluid characterization and separation in offshore processing.
- Advanced analytical techniques provide comprehensive insights into emulsion behavior and separation efficiency.
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