Study on Phase Inversion Characteristics of Heavy Oil Emulsions

Rheological properties of different heavy oils and their emulsions were measured using RheolabQC rheometer, and their phase inversion were observed using XP-300C microscopic image system. The viscosity of water in oil emulsions constantly increases as the content of bound water rises, and suddenly decreases while it increases to a certain extent, which is corresponding to its phase inversion point, a condition parameter that can be effectively lowered with a suitable chemical and enhanced by high-rate and/or long time stirring. The increase of inner phase concentration can promote the oil-water interface rupture and eventually make the inner and outer phases inversed.