Influence of the aggregate state of the dispersed phase and ultrasonic effect on the flow of emulsions in microchannels

Abstract

The paper presents the results of hydrodynamic studies of inverse water hydrocarbon dispersions: emulsions and, prepared from it by freezing the dispersed phase, suspension. In addition to the high viscosity of the emulsion, a much higher viscosity of the carrier phase, the success of the use of invert emulsions in the oil industry is due to the dynamic blocking effect. The effect is that the flow velocity in the capillary structures and cracks decreases by 3-4 orders of magnitude, in spite of the constantly acting pressure drop. The work shows an increase in viscosity with decreasing temperature, while the degree of blocking of the emulsion is higher than that of the suspension prepared from it. The ultrasonic effect makes it possible to control the effect of dynamic blocking. The short-term effect of ultrasound makes it possible to restore the flow, while a longer exposure leads to the fact that blocking occurs even in ultrasound.