Title: Formulation, Characterization and Application of Green Demulsifier for Water-in-oil Emulsion Treatment
Authors: Odofori Kefas and Suoton Philip Peletiri
Volume: 9
Issue: 4
Pages: 104-111
Publication Date: 2025/04/28
Abstract:
This research investigates the challenges associated with conventional chemical demulsifiers in the petroleum industry, including inadequate performance, poor biodegradability, and toxic effects. To tackle these issues, this study introduces a novel, eco-friendly demulsifier made from a natural, sustainable material (blend of Citrus Limon concentrate and glycerol). The synthesized demulsifier was characterized using particle size analysis, transmission electron microscope (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The synthesized green demulsifier was tested using the standard bottle test method, which involved breaking down a specially formulated water-in-oil emulsion. The findings indicate that the synthesized demulsifier achieves an outstanding rate of demulsification and the maximum efficiency achieved was 82 % within 180 minutes at a concentration of 7% v/v at 80 oC. While for the commercial demulsifier, the maximum efficiency obtained is 94 % at similar conditions. Consequently, the synthetic demulsifier outperforms the green demulsifier. But the green demulsifier have some advantages which includes; easy formulation, low cost, highly biodegradable. The work also explores the impact of various parameters, including settling time, temperature, and demulsifier concentration, on the demulsification process, providing a statistical analysis of their effects. The outcome of this study provides a viable and eco-friendly demulsifier solution for effective demulsification of field emulsions.