Demulsification of Water-in-Oil Emulsions under the Action of Nonuniform AC Electric Field

Abstract

We present an experimental approach using the microfluidic techniques, optical microscopy, and high-speed imaging to study the demulsification of water-in-oil emulsions under the action of a nonuniform alternating electric field. The parameters characterizing the demulsification dynamics are estimated. The approach can be used to develop effective methods for water-in-oil emulsions treatment, including in combination with other methods of exposure, for example, chemical, acoustic, thermal, etc.