Effect of interfacial rheology on model emulsion coalescence: I. Interfacial rheology

Interfacial elasticity and “dynamic” surface pressure isotherms were measured for interfaces between a dispersed water phase and a continuous phase of asphaltenes, toluene, and heptane. The interfacial modulus is a function of asphaltene concentration and in all cases reached a maximum at an asphaltene concentration of approximately 1 kg/m3. The modulus increased significantly as the interface aged and slightly as the heptane content increased to a practical limit of 50 vol%. The modulus was approximately the same at 23 and 60 °C. The modulus correlated with the inverse of the initial compressibility determined from surface pressure isotherms. The surface pressure isotherms also indicated that a phase transition occurred as the interface was compressed leading to the formation of low compressibility films. Crumpling was observed upon further compression. The phase transition shifted to a higher film ratio with an increase in heptane content and interface age. Asphaltene concentration and temperature (23 and 60 °C) has little effect on the surface pressure isotherms. The surface pressure and elasticity measurements are consistent with the gradual formation of a cross-linked asphaltene network on the interface.

Asphaltenes adsorb irreversibly on a water–hydrocarbon interface over time. The films undergo a transition from a high compressibility phase to a low compressibility phase upon contraction of the interface.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide