FEASIBILITY OF CRUDE OIL EMULSON DEMULSIFICATION USING HIBISCUS EXTRACT AS A GREEN DEMULSIFIER
Abstract
The emulsion in the Petroleum industry is very undesirable and at the same time, the formation of
the emulsion is ineluctable. Researchers have reported that the crude oil emulsions are associated
with corrosion of pipelines and equipment due to the presence of alkaline clay products, increase
in pumping cost due to the high viscosity of the emulsions, poisoning of catalysts in upstream
facilities and production of off-specification crude oil. They therefore require longer retention
times to separate, which increases the cost of the overall crude oil production (Abdulredha et al.,
2020). They must therefore be treated to meet set standards for production and transportation and
to reduce corrosion and catalyst poisoning that could occur in further processes
Chemical demulsifier is conventionally used by industries as it promises good and fast separation
in water-in-oil emulsion. However, chemical demulsifiers may increase water toxicity and become
harmful to aquatic lives if discharged to the water resources.
This study delves into the realm of natural extracts as green demulsifiers focusing specifically on
hibiscus (Rosa-sinensis) extract due to it’s eco-friendly nature and potential demulsifying
properties. By harnessing these innate properties, this research endeavors to pave the way for
novel, eco-friendly approaches.
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