Demulsification of crude oil-water emulsion using naturally formulated demulsifier

Abstract

In present study, a naturally derived demulsifier (DEMLOCS) is formulated with extract of Cocos nucifera which acts as a potential bio-degradable and environment-friendly demulsifier. The emulsion sample was treated with 500–2000 ppm dosage of DEMLOCS at varying temperature range from 30 °C to 45 °C. The sample is subjected to a static bottle test to find out efficacy of demulsifier to separate oil and water. 88% of water was separated from emulsion at 2000 ppm demulsifier concentration after 24 h at 45 °C. With increase in demulsifier concentration from 500 to 2000 ppm, interfacial tension was decreased from 12.59 to 2.64 dyne/cm which ultimately increase water separation. With increase in salinity separation increases upto certain concentration of salt, afterward separation decreased. Addition of DEMLOCS reduced viscosity of emulsion substantially. After addition of 2000 ppm demulsifier at 30 °C, viscosity of the emulsion reduced by 64% which is same when temperature of emulsion increased from 30 °C to 45 °C. So, addition of demulsifier is an alternative of heating to reduce viscosities which facilitate the extent of water separation. The bio-degradability studies of prepared DEMLOCS measured by free CO2 emission confirm that prepared demulsifier is easily degradable and not to harmful either for refining system or environment.