Ultrasonic Emulsification of Oil Tanker Cargo

摘要

The purpose of this project was to study the feasibility of producing emulsified oil at a rate comparable with conventional tanker loading rates and to investigate the economic and ecological factors. To determine blender design parameters and emulsified oil characteristics, two crude oils and one fuel oil were chosen. A Libyan light oil, a Venezuelan oil and no. 6 Fuel Oil were used. Only two emulsifiers were used and they were base-neutralized sulfonated nonionics. These are compatible with sea water and of low toxicity. The emulsions tested were oil-in-water. Oil was the internal phase and 97% of the total. Water and chemical was the external phase and 3% of the total. The tests on the emulsions were to determine: stability under simulated transportation conditions, dispersibility in sea water, toxicity to fish, and product alteration. Included were tests with safety aspects: evaporation rates, flash points, vapor pressures and rupture leak tests. An economic study was made which shows emulsification costs of about 20 cents per barrel without considering possible offsets or side benefits. (Author)