The impact of electric field on the demulsification efficiency in an electro-coalescence process

Abstract

In this study, the influence of the electric field and its determining parameters such as voltage, inter-electrode distance and frequency on the demulsification efficiency of a water-in-oil emulsion was studied. The numerical analysis showed that the water droplets trapped onto the hydrophobic titanium dioxide (TiO2) coated electrodes and at 2 mm inter-electrode distance can increase the electric field intensity above 300 kV/m, where droplet rupture takes place. Experimental study showed highest demulsification efficiency of 76% while applying AC voltage of 250 V, frequency of 200 kHz and inter-electrode distance of 4 mm.