Emulsion

Abstract

An emulsion comprising an oil phase and an aqueous phase; the emulsion comprises: from about 0.05 wt.% to about 1 wt.% of a surfactant; and from about 0.1 wt.% to about 95 wt.% of a C5 carbohydrate; and / or from about 0.1 wt.% to about 95 wt.% of a C6 carbohydrate; wherein the total amount of the components in the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to emulsions, fuel compositions comprising or consisting of emulsions, methods for preparing emulsions, emulsions obtained / produced / formed by such methods, and uses of said emulsions. Background Art

[0002] In recent years, significant changes in the scope and use of fuels worldwide have affected and altered the way energy-intensive industries meet their needs and operate. These industrial trends are clearly influenced by fuel economy, diversification and availability, and the increasing need for improved environmental performance. Higher prices have triggered a shift from conventional oil-based fuels to cheaper alternatives with reduced environmental impact. Although viable primary energy alternatives to oil exist for onshore industries, the transportation market still depends mainly on oil-based products, especially heavy fuel oil-based products, and will do so for the foreseeable future.

[0003] Heavy fuel oil is typically produced by blending viscous refined residues with higher-value distillate fuels to provide the lower viscosity characteristics required for acceptable fuel handling and combustion performance. Direct use of higher viscosity refined residues requires high-temperature storage and handling, which limits and complicates their potential use and thus reduces their value. As an alternative to blending refined residues for fuel oil production, other treatments of residues (such as coking, hydrocracking, etc.) can be applied at refineries to produce additional distillate fuels. However, this strategy requires significant capital investment by oil refineries, produces some lower-value products, has difficulty producing market by-products, and results in increased emissions (including greenhouse and acidic gases), all of which can limit the economic advantages of this approach.

[0004] Alternative fuel products are emerging in certain specific markets. For example, biofuels and bio-oils are considered possible alternatives to petroleum products derived entirely from fossil fuels. In some specific examples, the use of such biofuels or bio-oils can be considered environmentally beneficial or "green". However, the use of such alternative fuel products has significant drawbacks. For example, many engines are not designed to burn such products, and thus mechanical equipment and vehicles need to be modified to use the above products, which will impose a heavy cost burden on users. Although attempts to minimize such costs include mixing alternative fuel products with conventional oil, the results of these efforts are usually problematic because the resulting compositions are often unstable and difficult to handle and store for long periods. In addition, the mixing of such alternative fuel products may require large-scale processing plants, which imposes a further cost burden on users.

[0005] In many industries, existing infrastructure is not capable of handling alternative fuel products, and as such, transporting said products to their intended use locations can be costly. Additionally, many of these alternative fuel products are difficult to produce. For example, the precursors required to manufacture said products may be difficult to obtain or transport. As a result, they are costly to produce and generally cannot be produced near their intended use locations. Accordingly, many industries, particularly the shipping industry, still require alternative fuel products. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one aspect, there is provided an emulsion comprising an oil phase and an aqueous phase; the emulsion comprising:

[0007] from about 0.05 wt.% to about 1 wt.% of a surfactant; and

[0008] from about 0.1 wt.% to about 95 wt.% of a C5 carbohydrate; and / or

[0009] from about 0.1 wt.% to about 95 wt.% of a C6 carbohydrate;

[0010] wherein the total amount of each component in the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0011] In some embodiments, the C5 carbohydrate is selected from the group consisting of arabinose, lyxose, ribose, xylose, ribulose, xylulose, their cyclic forms, and mixtures thereof; wherein each arabinose, lyxose, ribose, xylose, ribulose, xylulose, and any of their cyclic forms may independently be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more substituents.

[0012] In some embodiments, the emulsion comprises one or more C5 carbohydrate derivatives; optionally, one or more C5 carbohydrate derivatives are each independently selected from the group consisting of furfural, tetrahydrofuran, methyltetrahydrofuran, 2 - methylfuran, 2,5 - dimethylfuran, 5 - hydroxymethylfurfural, furfuryl alcohol, tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol, or combinations thereof.

[0013] In some embodiments, the emulsion comprises one or more degradation products or dehydration products of hemicellulose.

[0014] In some embodiments, the emulsion comprises one or more C5 carbohydrate solvents; optionally, one or more C5 carbohydrate solvents are each independently selected from the group consisting of organic solvents, inorganic solvents, and mixtures thereof.

[0015] In some embodiments, the C6 carbohydrate is selected from the group consisting of allose, altrose, glucose, mannose, gulose, idose, galactose, talose, psicose, fructose, sorbose, tagatose, their cyclic forms, and mixtures thereof; wherein allose, altrose, glucose, mannose, gulose, idose, galactose, talose, psicose, fructose, sorbose, tagatose, and any cyclic forms thereof may each independently be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more substituents.

[0016] In some embodiments, the emulsion comprises one or more C6 carbohydrate derivatives; optionally, each of the one or more C6 carbohydrate derivatives is independently selected from the group consisting of furfural, tetrahydrofuran, methyltetrahydrofuran, 2-methylfuran, 2,5-dimethylfuran, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, furfuryl alcohol, tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol, or combinations thereof.

[0017] In some embodiments, the emulsion comprises one or more C6 carbohydrate solvents; optionally, each of the one or more C6 carbohydrate solvents is independently selected from the group consisting of organic solvents, inorganic solvents, and mixtures thereof.

[0018] In some embodiments, the C5 carbohydrate is included in the oil phase, the water phase, or both the oil phase and the water phase; and / or the C6 carbohydrate is included in the oil phase, the water phase, or both the oil phase and the water phase.

[0019] In some embodiments, the surfactant is a nonionic surfactant, anionic surfactant, cationic surfactant, zwitterionic surfactant, or a mixture thereof; optionally, the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of fatty alkyl amines, ethoxylated fatty alkyl amines, ethoxylated fatty alkyl monoamines, methylated fatty alkyl monoamines, methylated fatty alkyl amines, quaternary fatty alkyl amines, and combinations thereof.

[0020] In some embodiments, the emulsion comprises water in an amount of from about 1 wt.% to about 95 wt.%, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. In some embodiments, the emulsion comprises oil in an amount of from about 1 wt.% to about 99 wt.%, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0021] In some embodiments, the oil phase comprises or consists of:

[0022] (i) Hydrocarbon residues derived from one or more of: processed heavy crude oil or natural bitumen; refinery atmospheric distillation; refinery vacuum distillation; refinery visbreaking, thermal cracking, or steam cracking; refinery catalytic cracking; refinery hydrotreating and hydrocracking; and deasphalting processes; or combinations thereof;

[0023] (ii) Hydrocarbon residues selected from those having the following Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) registry numbers: 8052-42-4, 64741-45-3, 64741-56-6, 64741-67-9, 64741-75-9, 64741-80-6, 64742-07-0, 64742-78-5, 64742-85-4, 68748-13-7, 68783-13-1, 70913-85-8, 91995-23-2, or 92062-05-0, or combinations thereof;

[0024] (iii) Heavy fuel oil, residual fuel oil, or combinations thereof;

[0025] (iv) Biofuels, bio-oils, or combinations thereof; and / or

[0026] (v) Combinations of any one of (i), (ii), (iii), and / or (iv).

[0027] In some embodiments, the emulsion comprises an alcohol in an amount of from about 0.05 wt.% to about 70 wt.%, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0028] In some embodiments, the emulsion comprises a polymer stabilizer in an amount of from about 0.01 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0029] In some embodiments, the emulsion comprises an acid in an amount of from about 0.01 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%; optionally, wherein the acid is selected from organic acids, inorganic acids, or mixtures thereof.

[0030] In some embodiments, the oil phase is dispersed in the water phase. In some embodiments, the water phase is dispersed in the oil phase.

[0031] In some embodiments, the emulsion has a droplet size (D50) of from about 0.1 μm to about 100 μm. In some embodiments, the emulsion has a droplet size (D90) of from about 0.1 μm to about 200 μm.

[0032] In some embodiments, the emulsion has a dynamic viscosity not exceeding 1000 mPas at 50 °C and 100 s -1 wherein the dynamic viscosity is determined by the method described herein. In some embodiments, the emulsion has a dynamic viscosity not exceeding 500 mPas at 50 °C and 100 s -1 wherein the dynamic viscosity is determined by the method described herein.

[0033] In one aspect, there is provided a dye composition comprising or consisting of the emulsion described herein; optionally, wherein the fuel is diesel fuel, marine fuel or fuel oil for thermal energy and power generation applications.

[0034] In one aspect, there is provided a method for preparing an emulsion, the method comprising the steps of: providing an oil; mixing water with a surfactant to form an aqueous solution; providing a C5 carbohydrate and / or a C6 carbohydrate; and mixing the oil, the aqueous solution with the C5 carbohydrate and / or the C6 carbohydrate under conditions sufficient to form an emulsion. In some embodiments, the emulsion is the emulsion described herein.

[0035] In one aspect, there is provided an emulsion obtained / produced / formed from the method described herein.

[0036] In one aspect, there is provided the use of the emulsion as defined herein as a fuel.

[0037] In one aspect, there is provided a method for preparing a fuel using an emulsion as defined herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] The present invention will now be described with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0039] Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing a method for producing an emulsion as described herein.

[0040] Figure 2 A schematic diagram showing a method for producing an emulsion as described herein.

[0041] Figure 3 A schematic diagram showing a method for producing an emulsion as described herein.

[0042] Figure 4 A schematic diagram showing an example of a laboratory-scale colloid mill emulsification system for preparing test formulation samples. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] The present invention relates to an emulsion, a fuel composition comprising or consisting of the emulsion, a method for preparing the emulsion, an emulsion obtained / produced / formed by the method, and the use of the emulsion.

[0044] The inventors have unexpectedly found that an emulsion comprising an oil phase and an aqueous phase can be prepared, which also contains C5 carbohydrates and / or C6 carbohydrates. The resulting emulsion is stable and can be used as a fuel. This is particularly important because C5 carbohydrates and C6 carbohydrates can be readily obtained from commonly available sources such as biomass containing lignin. Such sources can be easily processed to obtain C5 carbohydrates and / or C6 carbohydrates, which can then be incorporated into the emulsions described herein. The inventors have demonstrated that such C5 carbohydrates and C6 carbohydrates can be incorporated into emulsions that can be used as fuels. C5 carbohydrates and / or C6 carbohydrates can serve as calorific components of the fuel, and their cost is lower than that of traditional fuel components. C5 carbohydrates and / or C6 carbohydrates can be conveniently produced near the point of use (which is particularly important for the shipping industry, as the shipping industry typically requires on-demand production of fuel near fueling stations around the world).

[0045] The inventors have also found that C5 carbohydrates and C6 carbohydrates formed as described herein can be produced as part of a C5 carbohydrate-containing component and a C6 carbohydrate-containing component, where each component can contain other components in addition to C5 carbohydrates and C6 carbohydrates, and these components can improve the quality and / or cost-effectiveness of the emulsions prepared therefrom.

[0046] Thus, in one aspect, there is provided an emulsion comprising an oil phase and an aqueous phase; the emulsion comprises:

[0047] from about 0.05 wt.% to about 1 wt.% of a surfactant; and

[0048] from about 0.1 wt.% to about 95 wt.% of C5 carbohydrates; and / or

[0049] from about 0.1 wt.% to about 95 wt.% of C6 carbohydrates;

[0050] wherein the total amount of each component in the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0051] In some embodiments, the C5 carbohydrate is a C5 monosaccharide, i.e., a carbohydrate / monosaccharide containing 5 carbon atoms. For example, the C5 carbohydrate can be a pentose or a pentose derivative. The C5 carbohydrate can comprise one or more C5 carbohydrates.

[0052] Each C5 carbohydrate can independently exist in its linear form, cyclic form, or a mixture thereof. For example, a C5 carbohydrate can contain 5 carbon atoms in the carbon skeleton of its linear form. For example, a C5 carbohydrate can contain 5 carbon atoms in the carbon-containing ring of its cyclic form (i.e., the C5 carbohydrate is a pyranosyl carbohydrate). Alternatively, a C5 carbohydrate can contain 4 carbon atoms in the carbon-containing ring of its cyclic form (i.e., the C5 carbohydrate is a furanosyl carbohydrate), and 1 carbon atom is directly attached to a carbon atom of the carbon-containing ring structure (i.e., there is no intervening atom between them). When the C5 carbohydrate is a furanosyl carbohydrate, the non-cyclic carbon atom can be directly attached to any one of the 4 cyclic carbon atoms.

[0053] In some embodiments, the C5 carbohydrate is selected from the group consisting of arabinose, lyxose, ribose, xylose, ribulose, xylulose, their cyclic forms, and mixtures thereof; wherein each arabinose, lyxose, ribose, xylose, ribulose, xylulose, and any of their cyclic forms can independently be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more substituents. The cyclic forms of arabinose, lyxose, ribose, xylose, ribulose, and xylulose are: arabinopyranose, arabinofuranose, lyxopyranose, lyxofuranose, ribopyranose, ribofuranose, xylopyranose, xylofuranose, ribulopyranose, ribulofuranose, xylulopyranose, and xylulofuranose, respectively. Each cyclic form can be in the D or L enantiomeric form. Each cyclic form can have an α or β stereoconfiguration.

[0054] The C5 carbohydrate can be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more substituents. When one or more substituents contain one or more carbon atoms, the resulting C5 carbohydrate will contain more than 5 carbon atoms. In this regard, the C5 of the C5 carbohydrate refers to the number of carbon atoms (5) in the unsubstituted C5 carbohydrate. For example, when a C5 carbohydrate as described herein is substituted with a methyl group, the C5 carbohydrate contains a total of 6 carbon atoms.

[0055] In some embodiments, the C5 carbohydrate can be substituted with one, two, three, four, or five substituents; optionally, substituted with one, two, or three substituents. Preferably, the C5 carbohydrate is substituted with one or two substituents. Preferably, the C5 carbohydrate is substituted with one substituent.

[0056] When the C5 carbohydrate is a C5 carbohydrate substituted with one or more substituents, one or more substituents can each independently be selected from the group consisting of C 1-10 alkyl, acetyl, amino, nitro, or cyano groups. Preferably, one or more substituents are each independently selected from the group consisting of C 1-5The group consisting of an alkyl group, an acetyl group, an amino group, a nitro group, or a cyano group. Optionally, one or more substituents are each independently C 1-10 alkyl group. For example, one or more substituents are each independently a C1 alkyl group, a C2 alkyl group, a C3 alkyl group, or a C4 alkyl group. Optionally, one or more substituents are each independently selected from methyl, ethyl, propyl (1-propyl or 2-propyl), and acetyl.

[0057] In some embodiments, the C5 carbohydrate is substituted with one or two substituents, each independently selected from methyl, ethyl, propyl (1-propyl or 2-propyl), and acetyl.

[0058] In some embodiments, the C5 carbohydrate is a C5 carbohydrate substituted with one or more substituents, and each of the one or more substituents does not contain an ester group.

[0059] In some embodiments, the C5 carbohydrate is selected from the group consisting of methyl-pentopyranoside, methyl-D-xylopyranoside, methyl-3-O-acetylpentopyranoside, and mixtures thereof.

[0060] In some embodiments, the C5 carbohydrate is a C5 oligosaccharide. The C5 carbohydrate can comprise one or more C5 oligosaccharides. When the C5 carbohydrate comprises one or more C5 oligosaccharides, each C5 oligosaccharide can independently comprise two or more C5 monosaccharide units linked by a glycosidic bond (O-glycosidic bond). Optionally, each C5 oligosaccharide can independently comprise two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten C5 monosaccharide units. Preferably, each C5 oligosaccharide comprises two or three monosaccharide units (i.e., each C5 oligosaccharide is a dimer or trimer). One or more C5 monosaccharide units can each independently be as described herein for C5 monosaccharides. In some embodiments, one or more C5 monosaccharide units are each a water-soluble C5 oligosaccharide.

[0061] In some embodiments, the C5 carbohydrate comprises one or more C5 oligosaccharides as described herein and one or more C5 monosaccharides.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment, the C5 carbohydrate comprises two or more C5 carbohydrates as described herein or consists of two or more C5 carbohydrates as described herein. For example, the C5 carbohydrate can comprise one or more (preferably one or two) C5 monosaccharides as described herein, and one or more (preferably one or two) C5 oligosaccharides as described herein. Preferably, the C5 monosaccharides are selected from those described herein, and the C5 oligosaccharides are C5 dimers or trimers.

[0063] In some embodiments, the C5 carbohydrate is an oligomer. The C5 carbohydrate can comprise one or more oligomers. When the C5 carbohydrate comprises one or more oligomers, each oligomer can independently comprise two or more C5 monosaccharide units linked by a glycosidic bond (O-glycosidic bond). Optionally, each oligomer can independently comprise two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten C5 monosaccharide units. One or more C5 monosaccharide units can each independently be a monosaccharide unit as described herein for C5 monosaccharides. In some embodiments, one or more of the oligomers are water-soluble oligomers.

[0064] In some embodiments, the C5 carbohydrate comprises one or more C5 oligomers and one or more C5 monosaccharides as described herein.

[0065] In preferred embodiments, the C5 carbohydrate comprises two or more C5 carbohydrates as described herein or consists of two or more C5 carbohydrates as described herein. For example, the C5 carbohydrate can comprise one or more (preferably one or two) C5 monosaccharides as described herein, and one or more (preferably one or two) C5 oligomers as described herein. Preferably, the C5 monosaccharide is selected from those described herein, and the C5 oligomer is a C5 dimer or trimer.

[0066] Oligomers and oligosaccharides differ from polymers in that polymers have more repeating units (generally many more). Those skilled in the art understand the difference between oligomers / oligosaccharides and polymers.

[0067] The emulsion comprises from about 0.1 wt.% to about 95 wt.% of the C5 carbohydrate, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. Optionally, the emulsion comprises from about 0.1 wt.% to about 75 wt.% of the C5 carbohydrate; from about 0.1 wt.% to about 70 wt.% of the C5 carbohydrate; from about 0.1 wt.% to about 65 wt.% of the C5 carbohydrate; from about 0.1 wt.% to about 60 wt.% of the C5 carbohydrate; from about 0.1 wt.% to about 50 wt.% of the C5 carbohydrate; from about 0.1 wt.% to about 40 wt.% of the C5 carbohydrate; or from about 0.1 wt.% to about 30 wt.% of the C5 carbohydrate; wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0068] In some embodiments, the emulsion comprises one or more C5 carbohydrate derivatives. For example, the emulsion may comprise one or more compounds derived from C5 carbohydrates and / or structurally similar to C5 carbohydrates. Optionally, each of the one or more C5 carbohydrate derivatives is independently selected from the group consisting of furfural, tetrahydrofuran, methyltetrahydrofuran, 2-methylfuran, 2,5-dimethylfuran, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, furfuryl alcohol, tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol, and combinations thereof. Optionally, each of the one or more C5 carbohydrate derivatives is independently selected from the group consisting of deoxy C5 carbohydrates, where the C5 carbohydrates are as defined herein.

[0069] The emulsion may comprise from about 1 wt.% to about 70 wt.% of the C5 carbohydrate derivative, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. The emulsion may comprise from about 1 wt.% to about 40 wt.% of the C5 carbohydrate derivative, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. The emulsion may comprise from about 1 wt.% to about 35 wt.% of the C5 carbohydrate derivative, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. The emulsion may comprise from about 1 wt.% to about 30 wt.% of the C5 carbohydrate derivative, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. The emulsion may comprise from about 1 wt.% to about 20 wt.% of the C5 carbohydrate derivative, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. The emulsion may comprise from about 1 wt.% to about 10 wt.% of the C5 carbohydrate derivative, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0070] In some embodiments, the emulsion comprises one or more hemicellulose degradation products or hemicellulose dehydration products. That is, the emulsion comprises products (compounds) produced in the degradation of hemicellulose; and / or products (compounds) produced by the dehydration of hemicellulose. Optionally, the emulsion comprises one or more lignin monomers or lignin oligomers. Optionally, the emulsion comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of uronic acid, propionic acid, methoxy acids, formic acid, levulinic acid, acetic acid, and ferulic acid. Optionally, the emulsion comprises one or more selected from the group consisting of formic acid, levulinic acid, acetic acid, and ferulic acid. Preferably, the emulsion comprises formic acid and / or levulinic acid. For example, the emulsion comprises formic acid and levulinic acid.

[0071] The emulsion may comprise from about 1 wt.% to about 10 wt.% of the hemicellulose degradation product, hemicellulose dehydration product, or a mixture thereof, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0072] In some embodiments, C5 carbohydrates, one or more C5 carbohydrate derivatives, or one or more hemicellulose degradation products or hemicellulose dehydration products are formed by an acid solvolysis process. For example, C5 carbohydrates, one or more C5 carbohydrate derivatives, or one or more hemicellulose degradation products or hemicellulose dehydration products are formed by a process that includes subjecting a lignocellulosic feedstock to an acid solvolysis process.

[0073] Preferably, C5 carbohydrates are formed by an acid solvolysis process. For example, C5 carbohydrates are formed by a process that includes subjecting a lignocellulosic feedstock to an acid solvolysis process.

[0074] The acid in the acid solvolysis process can be any acid suitable for preparing C5 carbohydrates, one or more C5 carbohydrate derivatives, or one or more hemicellulose degradation products or hemicellulose dehydration products. For example, the acid can be selected from the group consisting of organic acids, inorganic acids, or mixtures thereof.

[0075] Organic acids contain at least one C-H bond, examples of which include uronic acid, propionic acid, methoxy acids, ferulic acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid, levulinic acid, methanesulfonic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, citric acid, p-toluenesulfonic acid, and benzoic acid. Preferred organic acids include ferulic acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid, levulinic acid, methanesulfonic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, p-toluenesulfonic acid, or combinations thereof. For example, at least one (optionally all) of the acids is selected from formic acid and methanesulfonic acid.

[0076] Inorganic acids include sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, and nitric acid.

[0077] In some embodiments, the emulsion contains one or more C5 carbohydrate solvents, and optionally, each of the one or more C5 carbohydrate solvents is independently selected from the group consisting of organic solvents, inorganic solvents, and mixtures thereof. A C5 carbohydrate solvent is a solvent that can dissolve C5 carbohydrates as described herein (i.e., a solvent that can dissolve the C5 carbohydrates described herein and form a solution). Optionally, the C5 carbohydrate solvent is an organic solvent, optionally a polar organic solvent. For example, the C5 carbohydrate solvent can be selected from the group consisting of acetone, acetonitrile, dimethylformamide (DMF), dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), isopropanol, n-propanol, glycerol, water, ethanol, butanol, methanol, and mixtures thereof. When the emulsion contains a C5 carbohydrate solvent that is an inorganic solvent, the inorganic solvent can be water.

[0078] In some embodiments, the C5 carbohydrate solvent is a biogenic / biobased solvent (i.e., a solvent produced from biological materials). For example, the C5 carbohydrate solvent can be selected from the group consisting of bioglycerol, biobutanol, bioisopropanol, bio-n-propanol, bioethanol, biomethanol, water, and mixtures thereof.

[0079] In some embodiments, the emulsion comprises from about 0.1 wt.% to about 95 wt.% of a C5 carbohydrate solvent, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. Optionally, the emulsion comprises from about 1 wt.% to about 40 wt.% of a C5 carbohydrate solvent; from about 1 wt.% to about 30 wt.% of a C5 carbohydrate solvent; from about 1 wt.% to about 20 wt.% of a C5 carbohydrate solvent; from about 1 wt.% to about 10 wt.% of a C5 carbohydrate solvent; from about 1 wt.% to about 5 wt.% of a C5 carbohydrate solvent; or from about 1 wt.% to about 3 wt.% of a C5 carbohydrate solvent; wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0080] When the C5 carbohydrate solvent is water / contains water, the amount of water in the emulsion can be the sum of the water in the aqueous phase described herein and the water in the C5 carbohydrate solvent.

[0081] In some embodiments, the C6 carbohydrate is a C6 monosaccharide, i.e., a carbohydrate / monosaccharide containing 6 carbon atoms. For example, the C6 carbohydrate can be a hexose or a hexose derivative. The C6 carbohydrate can comprise one or more C6 carbohydrates.

[0082] Each C6 carbohydrate can independently exist in its linear form, its cyclic form, or a mixture thereof. For example, the C6 carbohydrate can contain 6 carbon atoms in its linear carbon skeleton. For example, the C6 carbohydrate can contain 5 carbon atoms in its carbon-containing ring in its cyclic form (i.e., the C6 carbohydrate is a pyranosyl carbohydrate), and 1 carbon atom is directly connected to a carbon atom of the carbon-containing ring (i.e., there is no intervening atom between them). Alternatively, the C6 carbohydrate can contain 4 carbon atoms in its carbon-containing ring in its cyclic form (i.e., the C6 carbohydrate is a furanosyl carbohydrate), and 2 carbon atoms are directly connected to a carbon atom of the carbon-containing ring (i.e., there is no intervening atom between them). When the C6 carbohydrate is a pyranosyl carbohydrate, the non-cyclic carbon atom can be directly connected to any one of the 5 cyclic carbon atoms. When the C6 carbohydrate is a furanosyl carbohydrate, each of the 2 non-cyclic carbon atoms can be directly connected to any one of the 4 cyclic carbon atoms.

[0083] In some embodiments, the C6 carbohydrate is selected from the group consisting of allose, altrose, glucose, mannose, gulose, idose, galactose, talose, psicose, fructose, sorbose, tagatose, their cyclic forms, and mixtures thereof; wherein allose, altrose, glucose, mannose, gulose, idose, galactose, talose, psicose, fructose, sorbose, tagatose, and any cyclic form thereof may each independently be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more substituents. The cyclic forms of allose, altrose, glucose, mannose, gulose, idose, galactose, talose, psicose, fructose, sorbose, tagatose are: pyranose allose, furanose allose, pyranose altrose, furanose altrose; pyranose glucose, furanose glucose, pyranose mannose, furanose mannose, pyranose gulose, furanose gulose, pyranose idose, furanose idose, pyranose galactose, furanose galactose, pyranose talose, furanose talose, pyranose psicose, furanose psicose, pyranose fructose, furanose fructose, pyranose sorbose, furanose sorbose, pyranose tagatose, and furanose tagatose. Each cyclic form may be in the D or L enantiomeric form. Each cyclic form may have the α or β stereoconfiguration.

[0084] The C6 carbohydrate may be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more substituents. When one or more substituents contain one or more carbon atoms, the resulting C6 carbohydrate contains more than 6 carbon atoms. In this regard, C6 of the C6 carbohydrate refers to the number of carbon atoms (6) in the unsubstituted C6 carbohydrate. For example, when a C6 carbohydrate as described herein is substituted with a methyl group, the C6 carbohydrate contains a total of 7 carbon atoms.

[0085] In some embodiments, the C6 carbohydrate may be substituted with one, two, three, four, or five substituents; optionally, substituted with one, two, or three substituents. Preferably, the C6 carbohydrate is substituted with one or two substituents. Preferably, the C6 carbohydrate is substituted with one substituent.

[0086] When the C6 carbohydrate is a C6 carbohydrate substituted with one or more substituents, one or more substituents may each independently be selected from the group consisting of C 1-10 alkyl, C 6-10 aryl (such as phenyl), acetyl, amino, nitro, or cyano. Preferably, one or more substituents are each independently selected from the group consisting of C 1-5 alkyl, C 6-10 aryl (such as phenyl), acetyl, amine, nitro, or cyano. C 1-10 alkyl, C 1-5 alkyl, or C 6-10Each aryl group may optionally be substituted by one or more selected from the group consisting of hydroxyacetyl, amino, nitro or cyano.

[0087] Optionally, one or more substituents are each independently a C 1-10 alkyl group. For example, one or more substituents are each independently a C1 alkyl group, a C2 alkyl group, a C3 alkyl group or a C4 alkyl group. Optionally, one or more substituents are each independently selected from methyl, ethyl, propyl (1-propyl or 2-propyl) and acetyl.

[0088] In some embodiments, the C6 carbohydrate is substituted by one or two substituents, each independently selected from methyl, ethyl, propyl (1-propyl or 2-propyl) and acetyl.

[0089] In some embodiments, the C6 carbohydrate is a C6 carbohydrate substituted by one or more substituents, and each of the one or more substituents does not contain an ester group.

[0090] In some embodiments, the C6 carbohydrate is selected from the group consisting of methyl-D-glucopyranoside, methyl-D-fructofuranoside and dimethyl-4-O-methyl-pyranhexoside or mixtures thereof.

[0091] In some embodiments, the C6 carbohydrate is a C6 oligosaccharide. The C6 carbohydrate may comprise one or more C6 oligosaccharides. When the C6 carbohydrate comprises one or more C6 oligosaccharides, each C6 oligosaccharide may independently comprise two or more C6 monosaccharide units linked by a glycosidic bond (O-glycosidic bond). Optionally, each C6 oligosaccharide may independently comprise two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine or ten C6 monosaccharide units. One or more C6 monosaccharide units may each independently be a monosaccharide unit as described herein for C6 monosaccharides. In some embodiments, one or more C6 monosaccharide units are water-soluble C6 oligosaccharides. In some embodiments, the C6 oligosaccharide comprises cellobiose.

[0092] In some embodiments, the C6 carbohydrate comprises one or more C6 oligosaccharides as described herein and one or more C6 monosaccharides.

[0093] In a preferred embodiment, the C6 carbohydrate comprises two or more C6 carbohydrates as described herein or consists of two or more C6 carbohydrates as described herein. For example, the C6 carbohydrate may comprise one or more (preferably one or two) C6 monosaccharides as described herein, and one or more (preferably one or two) C6 oligosaccharides as described herein. Preferably, the C6 monosaccharides are selected from glucose and mannose, and the C6 oligosaccharide is a C6 dimer or trimer (preferably cellobiose).

[0094] In some embodiments, the C6 carbohydrate is an oligomer. The C6 carbohydrate can comprise one or more oligomers. When the C6 carbohydrate comprises one or more oligomers, each oligomer can independently comprise two or more C6 monosaccharide units linked by a glycosidic bond (O-glycosidic bond). Optionally, each oligomer can independently comprise two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, or ten C6 monosaccharide units. One or more C6 monosaccharide units can each independently be a monosaccharide unit as described herein for C6 monosaccharides. In some embodiments, one or more of the oligomers are water-soluble oligomers.

[0095] In some embodiments, the C6 carbohydrate comprises one or more C6 oligomers and one or more C6 monosaccharides as described herein.

[0096] In preferred embodiments, the C6 carbohydrate comprises two or more C6 carbohydrates as described herein or consists of two or more C6 carbohydrates as described herein. For example, the C6 carbohydrate can comprise one or more (preferably one or two) C6 monosaccharides as described herein, and one or more (preferably one or two) C6 oligomers as described herein. Preferably, the C6 monosaccharide is selected from glucose and mannose, and the C6 oligosaccharide is a C6 dimer or trimer (preferably cellobiose).

[0097] Oligomers and oligosaccharides differ from polymers in that polymers have more repeating units (usually many more repeating units). Those skilled in the art understand the difference between oligomers / oligosaccharides and polymers.

[0098] The emulsion comprises from about 0.1 wt.% to about 95 wt.% of the C6 carbohydrate, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. Optionally, the emulsion comprises from about 0.1 wt.% to about 75 wt.% of the C6 carbohydrate; from about 0.1 wt.% to about 70 wt.% of the C6 carbohydrate; from about 0.1 wt.% to about 65 wt.% of the C6 carbohydrate; from about 0.1 wt.% to about 60 wt.% of the C6 carbohydrate; from about 0.1 wt.% to about 50 wt.% of the C6 carbohydrate; from about 0.1 wt.% to about 40 wt.% of the C6 carbohydrate; or from about 0.1 wt.% to about 30 wt.% of the C6 carbohydrate; wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. Preferably, the emulsion comprises from about 0.1 wt.% to about 25 wt.% of the C6 carbohydrate; from about 0.1 wt.% to about 20 wt.% of the C6 carbohydrate; or from about 0.1 wt.% to about 15 wt.% of the C6 carbohydrate; wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0099] In some embodiments, the emulsion comprises one or more C6 carbohydrate derivatives. For example, the emulsion may comprise one or more compounds derived from C6 carbohydrates and / or structurally similar to C6 carbohydrates. Optionally, each of the one or more C6 carbohydrate derivatives is independently selected from the group consisting of furfural, tetrahydrofuran, methyltetrahydrofuran, 2-methylfuran, 2,5-dimethylfuran, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, furfuryl alcohol, tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol, or combinations thereof. Preferably, the emulsion comprises 5-hydroxymethylfurfural. Optionally, each of the one or more C6 carbohydrate derivatives is independently selected from the group consisting of deoxy C6 carbohydrates, where the C6 carbohydrates are as defined herein.

[0100] The emulsion may comprise from about 1 wt.% to about 70 wt.% of the C6 carbohydrate derivative, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. The emulsion may comprise from about 1 wt.% to about 40 wt.% of the C6 carbohydrate derivative, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. The emulsion may comprise from about 1 wt.% to about 35 wt.% of the C6 carbohydrate derivative, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. The emulsion may comprise from about 1 wt.% to about 30 wt.% of the C6 carbohydrate derivative, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. The emulsion may comprise from about 1 wt.% to about 20 wt.% of the C6 carbohydrate derivative, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. The emulsion may comprise from about 1 wt.% to about 10 wt.% of the C6 carbohydrate derivative, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0101] In some embodiments, the C6 carbohydrate or one or more C6 carbohydrate derivatives are formed by an acid solvolysis process. For example, the C6 carbohydrate or one or more C6 carbohydrate derivatives are formed by a process comprising subjecting a lignocellulosic feedstock to an acid solvolysis process.

[0102] Preferably, the C6 carbohydrate is formed by an acid solvolysis process. For example, the C6 carbohydrate is formed by a process comprising subjecting a lignocellulosic feedstock to an acid solvolysis process.

[0103] The acid in the acid solvolysis process can be any acid suitable for preparing the C6 carbohydrate, one or more C6 carbohydrate derivatives. For example, the acid can be selected from the group consisting of organic acids, inorganic acids, or mixtures thereof.

[0104] Organic acids contain at least one C-H bond, and examples thereof include uronic acid, propionic acid, methoxy acids, ferulic acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid, levulinic acid, methanesulfonic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, citric acid, p-toluenesulfonic acid, and benzoic acid. Preferred organic acids include ferulic acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid, levulinic acid, methanesulfonic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, p-toluenesulfonic acid, or a combination thereof. For example, at least one (optionally all) of the acids is selected from formic acid and methanesulfonic acid.

[0105] Inorganic acids include sulfuric acid, hydrochloric acid, phosphoric acid, and nitric acid.

[0106] Preferably, an acid hydrolysis process is carried out after the acid solvolysis process. For example, in the cellulose-containing raw material produced by the acid solvolysis process, at least a part thereof is subsequently subjected to an acid hydrolysis process. For example, the acid in the acid hydrolysis process can be the same as or different from the acid in the acid solvolysis process. For example, the acid in the acid hydrolysis process is methanesulfonic acid or sulfuric acid. Preferably, the acid in the acid hydrolysis process is sulfuric acid.

[0107] Optionally, an enzymatic hydrolysis process is carried out after the acid solvolysis process. For example, in the cellulose-containing raw material produced by the acid solvolysis process, at least a part thereof is subsequently subjected to an enzymatic hydrolysis process.

[0108] In some embodiments, the emulsion contains one or more C6 carbohydrate solvents. Optionally, each of the one or more C6 carbohydrate solvents is independently selected from the group consisting of organic solvents, inorganic solvents, and mixtures thereof. A C6 carbohydrate solvent refers to a solvent that can dissolve C6 carbohydrates as described herein (i.e., a solvent that can dissolve the C6 carbohydrates described herein and form a solution). Optionally, the C6 carbohydrate solvent is an organic solvent, optionally a polar organic solvent. For example, the C6 carbohydrate solvent can be selected from the group consisting of acetone, acetonitrile, dimethylformamide (DMF), dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), isopropanol, n-propanol, glycerol, water, butanol, ethanol, methanol, and mixtures thereof. When the emulsion contains a C6 carbohydrate solvent that is an inorganic solvent, the inorganic solvent can be water.

[0109] In some embodiments, the C6 carbohydrate solvent is a biogenic solvent / biobased solvent (i.e., a solvent produced from biological materials). For example, the C6 carbohydrate solvent can be selected from the group consisting of bioglycerol, biobutanol, bioisopropanol, bio-n-propanol, bioethanol, biomethanol, water, and mixtures thereof.

[0110] In some embodiments, the emulsion comprises from about 0.1 wt.% to about 95 wt.% of a C6 carbohydrate solvent, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. Optionally, the emulsion comprises from about 1 wt.% to about 40 wt.% of a C6 carbohydrate solvent; from about 1 wt.% to about 30 wt.% of a C6 carbohydrate solvent; from about 1 wt.% to about 20 wt.% of a C6 carbohydrate solvent; from about 1 wt.% to about 10 wt.% of a C6 carbohydrate solvent; from about 1 wt.% to about 5 wt.% of a C6 carbohydrate solvent; or from about 1 wt.% to about 3 wt.% of a C6 carbohydrate solvent; wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0111] When the C6 carbohydrate solvent is water / contains water, the amount of water in the emulsion can be the sum of the water in the aqueous phase described herein and the water in the C6 carbohydrate solvent.

[0112] In some embodiments, the C5 carbohydrate is included in the oil phase, the aqueous phase, or both the oil phase and the aqueous phase. In some embodiments, the C5 carbohydrate is included in the oil phase and the oil phase is included in the aqueous phase. For example, the C5 carbohydrate can form dispersed droplets in the oil phase of an oil-in-water emulsion. In some embodiments, the C6 carbohydrate is included in the oil phase, the aqueous phase, or both the oil phase and the aqueous phase. In some embodiments, the C6 carbohydrate is included in the oil phase and the oil phase is included in the aqueous phase. For example, the C6 carbohydrate can form dispersed droplets in the oil phase of an oil-in-water emulsion.

[0113] Water

[0114] In some embodiments, the emulsion comprises water in an amount from about 1 wt.% to about 95 wt.%, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. Optionally, the emulsion comprises from about 1 wt.% to about 75 wt.% of water; from about 1 wt.% to about 65 wt.% of water; from about 1 wt.% to about 60 wt.% of water; from about 1 wt.% to about 50 wt.% of water; from about 1 wt.% to about 40 wt.% of water; from about 1 wt.% to about 30 wt.% of water; from about 1 wt.% to about 20 wt.% of water; or from about 1 wt.% to about 10 wt.% of water; wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0115] The water in the aqueous phase can come from a variety of sources. Table 1 gives examples of water specifications that can be used.

[0116] Table 1: Examples of water specifications for emulsion production

[0117] Parameter Value Suspended matter Less than 10 mg / L and filtered through 35 μm Chloride, mg / L Less than 50 Alkali metal, mg / L Less than 20 Alkaline earth metal, mg / L Less than 30 <![CDATA[Silicon (calculated as SiO2), mg / L]]> Less than 40 pH 6.5 to 8 Total hardness Maximum 6 °dH

[0118] Optionally, the water can be pretreated, for example, by filtration and / or deionization.

[0119] Oil

[0120] In some embodiments, the emulsion comprises oil in an amount of from about 1 wt.% to about 99 wt.%, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. Optionally, the emulsion comprises oil in an amount of up to about 70 wt.%, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. Optionally, the emulsion comprises oil in an amount of up to about 60 wt.% or about 50 wt.%, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0121] In some embodiments, the emulsion comprises oil in an amount of from about 30 wt.% to about 70 wt.%, from about 40 wt.% to about 70 wt.%, or from about 50 wt.% to about 70 wt.%, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. Optionally, the emulsion comprises oil in an amount of from about 30 wt.% to about 60 wt.% or from about 40 wt.% to about 50 wt.%, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0122] In some embodiments, the oil / oil phase comprises or consists of the following:

[0123] (i) Hydrocarbon residues derived from one or more of the following: processed heavy crude oil or natural bitumen; refinery atmospheric distillation; refinery vacuum distillation; refinery visbreaking, thermal cracking or steam cracking; refinery catalytic cracking; refinery hydrotreating and hydrocracking; and deasphalting; or combinations thereof;

[0124] (ii) Hydrocarbon residues selected from those having the following Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) registry numbers: 8052-42-4, 64741-45-3, 64741-56-6, 64741-67-9, 64741-75-9, 64741-80-6, 64742-07-0, 64742-78-5, 64742-85-4, 68748-13-7, 68783-13-1, 70913-85-8, 91995-23-2 or 92062-05-0, or combinations thereof;

[0125] (iii) Heavy fuel oil, residual fuel oil or combinations thereof;

[0126] (iv) Biofuels, bio-oils or combinations thereof; and / or

[0127] (v) Combinations of any one of (i), (ii), (iii) and / or (iv).

[0128] Biofuels or bio - oils can be any fuels or oils derived from biomass. For example, biofuels or bio - oils can be derived from plant or algal materials or animal waste. In some embodiments, bio - oils are derived from the thermochemical treatment and / or thermocatalytic treatment of biomass (such as biomass materials like crops, algal biomass, municipal waste, agricultural and forestry by - products, and lignocellulosic biomass).

[0129] In some embodiments, biofuels / bio - oils can include biomass oils, seed oils, pyrolysis oils of biomass, hydrotreated pyrolysis oils of biomass, hydrotreated fatty acids (and their methyl esters), hydrotreated seed oils, hydrotreated aromatic oxygenated bio - oils, fatty acids, fatty acid methyl esters, algal oils, or combinations thereof. For example, biofuels / bio - oils include waste cooking oil, methyl esters of waste cooking oil, or combinations thereof.

[0130] The oil phase of the emulsion can contain hydrocarbons. Generally, the oil is a source of heavy hydrocarbons, and its density can be slightly lower to significantly higher than water (e.g., 0.95 to 1.15 kg / m 3 or 0.95 to 1.25 kg / m 3 ) at 15 °C. Heavy hydrocarbons can have extremely high viscosities. For example, the viscosity can be as high as 300000 cSt at 100 °C. Residual or hydrocarbon sources with a viscosity of 7 cSt or higher at 25 °C, or 10 cSt or higher at 100 °C can be used. Hydrocarbon sources with a viscosity of 180 cSt or higher, preferably 250 cSt or higher at 25 °C can also be used. The oil - phase hydrocarbons can come from many established processes, including:

[0131] - Processed natural heavy crude oil or natural asphalt (usually after desanding, desalting, and dehydration);

[0132] - Atmospheric distillation in a refinery;

[0133] - Vacuum distillation in a refinery;

[0134] - Visbreaking, thermal cracking, or steam cracking in a refinery;

[0135] - Catalytic cracking (thermal and catalytic) in a refinery;

[0136] - Hydrotreating and hydrocracking in a refinery;

[0137] - Deasphalting treatment.

[0138] In one embodiment, the emulsion contains an oil phase that is a hydrocarbon residue, for example, derived from refinery residues with a kinematic viscosity of at most 300000 cSt at 100 °C, preferably higher than 200 cSt at 100 °C, more preferably higher than 1000 cSt at 100 °C.

[0139] Table 2 gives examples of hydrocarbon residues suitable for the emulsions of the present invention.

[0140] Table 2: Hydrocarbon Residue Examples

[0141]

[0142]

[0143]

[0144] Table 3 gives examples of hydrocarbon residues that can be used.

[0145] Table 3: Hydrocarbon Residue Examples

[0146]

[0147]

[0148] Chemical additive

[0149] The emulsion of the present invention comprises a surfactant and glycerol. In some embodiments, the emulsion may additionally comprise one or more organic acids. In some embodiments, the emulsion may additionally comprise a polymer stabilizer. In some embodiments, the emulsion may additionally comprise an alcohol selected from the list consisting of C1 to C 10 monohydric or dihydric alcohols.

[0150] When preparing the emulsion, the chemical additives are generally added to the aqueous phase before mixing with the oil phase. When preparing the emulsion, the chemical additives may optionally / additionally be added to the oil phase before mixing with the aqueous phase. Glycerol can be added to the oil phase or the aqueous phase, or to both the oil phase and the aqueous phase. The C1 to C 10 monohydric or dihydric alcohols can be added to the oil phase or the aqueous phase, or to both the oil phase and the aqueous phase. The acid can be added to the oil phase or the aqueous phase, or to both the oil phase and the aqueous phase.

[0151] The chemical additives can be provided individually, or two or more additives can be provided in the form of a pre-prepared chemical additive package.

[0152] Surfactant

[0153] The emulsion comprises from about 0.05 wt.% to about 1 wt.% of a surfactant. In some embodiments, the surfactant is a nonionic surfactant, an anionic surfactant, a cationic surfactant, an amphoteric surfactant, or a mixture thereof.

[0154] In some embodiments, the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of fatty alkyl amines, ethoxylated fatty alkyl amines, ethoxylated fatty alkyl monoamines, methylated fatty alkyl monoamines, methylated fatty alkyl amines, quaternary fatty alkyl amines, and combinations thereof.

[0155] When preparing an emulsion, the surfactant is typically added to the aqueous phase before mixing with the oil phase. When preparing an emulsion, the surfactant is optionally / additionally added to the oil phase before mixing with the aqueous phase. In some embodiments, glycerol is present in the oil phase and the surfactant can also be added to the oil phase.

[0156] The surfactant is present in an amount of about 0.05 wt.% to about 1 wt.% of the emulsion. One purpose of the surfactant is to act as an emulsifier to stabilize the oil phase droplets in the aqueous phase. A surfactant in the range of about 0.05 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.% can be used, such as about 0.08 wt.% to about 0.4 wt.%.

[0157] A variety of surfactants can be used. There can be one surfactant or a combination of more than one surfactant. At least one surfactant, and optionally all surfactants, can be selected from one or more of the following:

[0158] Fatty alkyl amines according to the following formula;

[0159] R a -[NH(CH2) m p -NH2

[0160] wherein;

[0161] R a is an aliphatic group having 12 to 24 carbon atoms (preferably 12 - 14, 14 - 16, 16 - 18, 18 - 20, 20 - 22 or 22 - 24 carbon atoms),

[0162] m is the number 2 or 3

[0163] p is a number from 0 to 3

[0164] Ethoxylated fatty alkyl amines according to the following formula;

[0165]

[0166] wherein;

[0167] R b is an aliphatic group having 12 to 24 carbon atoms (preferably 12 - 14, 14 - 16, 16 - 18, 18 - 20, 20 - 22 or 22 - 24 carbon atoms),

[0168] m is the number 2 or 3

[0169] p is a number from 1 to 3

[0170] ​n1, n2, and n3 are each independently a number in the range greater than 0 to 70, such as 2 to 70, or 3 to 70. In one embodiment, n1 + n2 + n3 is a number greater than 0 and at most 210. Each of n1, n2, and n3 can be an integer or not an integer.

[0171] Ethoxylated fatty alkyl monoamine according to the following formula;

[0172]

[0173] wherein;

[0174] R c is an aliphatic group having 12 to 24 carbon atoms (preferably 12 - 14, 14 - 16, 16 - 18, 18 - 20, 20 - 22, or 22 - 24 carbon atoms),

[0175] m1 and m2 are each a number greater than 0 and at most 70, such as 2 to 70, or 3 to 70. In one embodiment, m1 + m2 is a number greater than 0 and at most 140. Each of m1 and m2 can be an integer or not an integer.

[0176] Methylated fatty alkyl monoamine according to the following formula;

[0177]

[0178] wherein;

[0179] group R 1 、R 2 and R 3 One or two of them are each independently selected from aliphatic groups having 8 to 22 carbon atoms (preferably 8 - 10, 10 - 12, 12 - 14, 14 - 16, 16 - 18, 18 - 20, or 20 - 22 carbon atoms),

[0180] R 1 、R 2 and R 3 The remaining groups are methyl;

[0181] Methylated fatty alkyl amine according to the following formula;

[0182]

[0183] wherein;

[0184] group R 1 to R 5 One or two of them are independently selected from aliphatic groups having 8 to 22 carbon atoms (preferably 8 - 10, 10 - 12, 12 - 14, 14 - 16, 16 - 18, 18 - 20, or 20 - 22 carbon atoms),

[0185] R 1 to R 5 The remaining groups are methyl groups,

[0186] n is an integer from 1 to 5,

[0187] m is 2 or 3,

[0188] or according to the following formula;

[0189]

[0190] wherein;

[0191] The group R 1 to R 7 One or two of them are each independently selected from aliphatic groups having 8 to 22 carbon atoms (preferably 8 - 10, 10 - 12, 12 - 14, 14 - 16, 16 - 18, 18 - 20 or 20 - 22 carbon atoms),

[0192] R 1 to R 7 The remaining groups are methyl groups,

[0193] m is 2 or 3,

[0194] y and z are integers from 0 to 4, and (y + z) is from 0 to 4;

[0195] or according to the following formula;

[0196]

[0197] wherein;

[0198] The group R 1 to R 7 One or two of them are aliphatic groups containing 8 to 22 carbon atoms (preferably 8 - 10, 10 - 12, 12 - 14, 14 - 16, 16 - 18, 18 - 20 or 20 - 22 carbon atoms),

[0199] R 1 to R 7 The remaining groups are methyl groups,

[0200] m is 2 or 3,

[0201] t is between 0 and 3,

[0202] r and s are between 1 and 4, and (t + r + s) is between 2 and 5;

[0203] and;

[0204] Quaternary fatty alkyl amine according to the following formula;

[0205]

[0206] Wherein;

[0207] R 1 is an aliphatic group having 12 to 24 carbon atoms (preferably 12 - 14, 14 - 16, 16 - 18, 18 - 20, 20 - 22 or 22 - 24 carbon atoms), such as –(CH2) y -CH3, optionally containing a carbonyl adjacent to the nitrogen atom, i.e., -C(O)-(CH2) (y-1) -CH3, where y is 10 to 22 (preferably y is 10 - 12, 12 - 14, 14 - 16, 16 - 18, 18 - 20 or 20 - 22);

[0208] R 2 and R 3 are each independently selected from H or an aliphatic group having 1 to 6 carbon atoms (preferably 1 to 3 carbon atoms, more preferably 1 carbon atom) when present each time;

[0209] R 4 is selected from H or C 1-4 aliphatic group;

[0210] m is 2 or 3;

[0211] t is 0 to 4,

[0212] A is an anion;

[0213] n is the valence of the anion.

[0214] The aliphatic groups mentioned in the above formula, including those containing carbonyl groups, may optionally be substituted by usually one or more, for example 1 to 3, substituents independently selected from hydroxy, C 1-3 alkyl, C 1-3 alkoxy or C 1-3 hydroxyalkyl. Preferably, there are no substituents on the aliphatic group. Each aliphatic group can be saturated or can contain carbon - carbon double bonds or carbon - carbon triple bonds, for example up to 6 double bonds, for example up to 3 double bonds.

[0215] Preferably, R 1 has the formula C 14-20 H 24-41 or C(O)C 13-19 H 22-39 . More preferably, R 1 has the formula C 14-20 H 24-41 .

[0216] Preferably, each R 2 and R 3 is independently selected from CH3, H, and CH2CH2OH.

[0217] Preferably, each R 4 is independently selected from CH3 and H.

[0218] Examples of fatty alkyl amines include:

[0219] Quaternary fatty alkyl monoamines according to the following formula;

[0220]

[0221] wherein;

[0222] R d is an aliphatic group having 12 to 24 carbon atoms (preferably 12 - 14, 14 - 16, 16 - 18, 18 - 20, 20 - 22, or 22 - 24 carbon atoms),

[0223] A is an anion;

[0224] and

[0225] Quaternary fatty alkyl diamines according to the following formula;

[0226]

[0227] wherein;

[0228] R d is an aliphatic group having 12 to 24 carbon atoms (preferably 12 - 14, 14 - 16, 16 - 18, 18 - 20, 20 - 22, or 22 - 24 carbon atoms),

[0229] A is an anion,

[0230] n is the valence of the anion;

[0231] In the above, the anion A is preferably selected from those anions that bind more strongly to the quaternary ammonium than carbonate. Examples include halides, especially Cl - ; and organic anions such as formate (HCOO - ), acetate (CH3COO - ), and methanesulfonate (CH3SO3 - ).

[0232] As described above, the group "EO" is an ethoxylate group (-CH2CH2O-). The ethoxylate group (or a polyether group of more than one linked ethoxylate group) is typically capped with H, i.e., -CH2CH2OH.

[0233] In an embodiment, the surfactant is selected from one or more fatty alkyl diamines, fatty alkyl triamines, and fatty alkyl tetraamines, ethoxylated fatty alkyl monoamines, ethoxylated fatty alkyl diamines, and ethoxylated fatty alkyl triamines, and fatty alkyl quaternary amines.

[0234] In a further embodiment, the surfactant is selected from one or more fatty alkyl diamines, fatty alkyl tetraamines, ethoxylated fatty alkyl diamines, and fatty alkyl quaternary amines. Examples include fatty alkyl tripropylene tetramines such as tallow tripropylene tetramine, fatty alkyl propylene diamines, and oleyl diamine ethoxylate.

[0235] The term "fatty alkyl" includes not only saturated groups (i.e., C 12 to C 24 alkyl, preferably C 12-14 、C 14-16 、C 16-18 、C 18-20 、C 20-22 or C 22-24 ), but also partially unsaturated C 12 to C 24 groups (i.e., C 12 to C 24 alkenyl, preferably C 12-14 、C 14-16 、C 16-18 、C 18-20 、C 20-22 or C 22-24 ), for example having up to six C═C double bonds. Preferred fatty alkyl groups have no more than 3 double bonds. Examples of fatty alkyl groups include oleyl (C18, 1 double bond) and other groups related to tallow such as palmityl (C16, 0 double bonds), stearyl (C18, no double bonds), myristyl (C14, no double bonds), palm oil base (C16, 1 double bond), linoleyl (C18, 2 double bonds), and linolenyl (C18, 3 double bonds). The term "fatty alkyl" includes natural and synthetic alkyl groups, for example, synthetic alkyl groups can include C 15 or C 17 . Examples of suitable fatty alkyl groups include C 12 、C 13 、C 14 、C 15 、C 16 、C 17 and C18 groups, each of which can be fully saturated or can contain one or more double bonds.

[0236] Surfactants can be selected based on the composition of the aqueous phase, the oil phase, and / or the overall emulsion. For example, surfactants can be selected to ensure that the components of the aqueous phase or the oil phase are soluble in each other. For example, surfactants can be selected to ensure that the components of a phase containing C1 to C 10 components of a phase of a mono- or dihydric alcohol are soluble in each other.

[0237] alcohol

[0238] In some embodiments, the emulsion contains an alcohol. When the emulsion contains an alcohol, the emulsion contains the alcohol in an amount of about 0.05 wt.% to about 70 wt.%, where the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0239] In some embodiments, the emulsion can contain an alcohol selected from the list consisting of C1 to C 10 mono- or dihydric alcohols. For example, the alcohol can be included in the oil phase and / or the aqueous phase. For example, the alcohol can be included in the aqueous phase. For example, the alcohol can be included in the oil phase. For example, the alcohol can be included in both the oil phase and the aqueous phase simultaneously. Preferably, the alcohol is included in the aqueous phase.

[0240] In some embodiments, the emulsion contains glycerol in an amount of about 0.5 wt.% to about 70 wt.%, where the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. In some embodiments, the glycerol is derived from a renewable carbon source. As used herein, "renewable carbon source" or "biomass" refers to a carbon source of organic materials derived from plants, trees, and crops. The term may include carbon sources from dedicated energy crops and may also include residues generated during the processing of crops used for food or other products. Glycerol derived from a renewable carbon source can be produced from renewable plant crops such as rapeseed, canola, soybeans, or palm.

[0241] In some embodiments, the emulsion contains about 20 wt.% to about 70 wt.% of glycerol, where the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. In some embodiments, the emulsion contains about 30 wt.% to about 70 wt.% of glycerol, where the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. In some embodiments, the emulsion contains about 40 wt.% to about 70 wt.% of glycerol, where the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0242] In some embodiments, the emulsion contains about 10 wt.% to about 60 wt.% of glycerol, where the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0243] In some embodiments, the emulsion comprises about 40 wt.%, about 50 wt.%, or about 60 wt.% glycerol, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0244] In some embodiments, the alcohol is included in the glycerol-containing phase (i.e., the glycerol-containing phase contains the alcohol). The glycerol-containing phase is the phase containing glycerol (i.e., the oil phase or the water phase).

[0245] It has been found that when the emulsion contains an alcohol selected from the list consisting of C1 to C 10 monohydric or dihydric alcohols (e.g., in the glycerol-containing phase), a glycerol-containing phase with a particularly advantageous density can be obtained. For example, a glycerol-containing phase with a density of about + / - 0.05 g / mL of the oil (e.g., + / - 0.05 g / mL) can be obtained. It has been found that such a glycerol-containing phase results in an increase in the stability of the emulsion (e.g., emulsion stratification or sedimentation).

[0246] When the term + / - 0.05 g / mL is used, it means that the density value of the glycerol-containing phase is +0.05 g / mL of the oil density or -0.05 g / mL of the oil density. This does not mean that the value of the glycerol-containing phase is within the range of + / - 0.05 g / mL of the oil.

[0247] In a preferred embodiment, the emulsion comprises oil, and the density of the glycerol-containing phase is from +0.05 g / mL to about +0.5 g / mL or from -0.05 g / mL to about -0.5 g / mL of the oil density. For example, the density of the glycerol-containing phase can be from +0.05 g / mL to about +0.46 g / mL or from -0.05 g / mL to about -0.46 g / mL of the oil density. For example, the density of the glycerol-containing phase can be from +0.05 g / mL to about +0.3 g / mL or from -0.05 g / mL to about -0.3 g / mL of the oil density. For example, the density of the glycerol-containing phase can be from +0.05 g / mL to about +0.2 g / mL or from -0.05 g / mL to about -0.2 g / mL of the oil density. For example, the density of the glycerol-containing phase can be from +0.05 g / mL to about +0.1 g / mL or from -0.05 g / mL to about -0.1 g / mL of the oil density. For example, the density of the glycerol-containing phase can be from +0.05 g / mL to about +0.08 g / mL or from -0.05 g / mL to about -0.08 g / mL of the oil density. In these embodiments, the density is measured at the storage temperature.

[0248] In a preferred embodiment, the emulsion comprises an oil, and the density of the glycerol-containing phase is from the oil density + 0.05 g / mL to about + 0.5 g / mL. For example, the density of the glycerol-containing phase can be from the oil density + 0.05 g / mL to about + 0.46 g / mL. For example, the density of the glycerol-containing phase can be from the oil density + 0.05 g / mL to about + 0.3 g / mL. For example, the density of the glycerol-containing phase can be from the oil density + 0.05 g / mL to about + 0.2 g / mL. For example, the density of the glycerol-containing phase can be from the oil density + 0.05 g / mL to about + 0.1 g / mL. For example, the density of the glycerol-containing phase can be from the oil density + 0.05 g / mL to about + 0.08 g / mL. In these embodiments, the density is measured at the storage temperature.

[0249] In a preferred embodiment, the emulsion comprises an oil, and the density of the glycerol-containing phase is from the oil density - 0.05 g / mL to about - 0.5 g / mL. For example, the density of the glycerol-containing phase can be from the oil density - 0.05 g / mL to about - 0.46 g / mL. For example, the density of the glycerol-containing phase can be from the oil density - 0.05 g / mL to about - 0.3 g / mL. For example, the density of the glycerol-containing phase can be from the oil density - 0.05 g / mL to about - 0.2 g / mL. For example, the density of the glycerol-containing phase can be from the oil density - 0.05 g / mL to about - 0.1 g / mL. For example, the density of the glycerol-containing phase can be from the oil density - 0.05 g / mL to about - 0.08 g / mL. In these embodiments, the density is measured at the storage temperature. The storage temperature is from 20 °C to 40 °C. Preferably, the storage temperature is 30 °C.

[0250] The emulsion according to any one of the foregoing examples may comprise from about 0.5 wt.% to about 70 wt.% of an alcohol selected from the list consisting of C1 to C 10 monohydric or dihydric alcohols, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. For example, the emulsion may comprise from about 1 wt.% to about 60 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 50 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 40 wt.%, from about 1 wt.% to about 30 wt.% or from about 1 wt.% to about 25 wt.% of an alcohol selected from the list consisting of C1 to C 10 monohydric or dihydric alcohols, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. In some embodiments, the emulsion may comprise from about 2 wt.% to about 25 wt.% of an alcohol selected from the list consisting of C1 to C 10 monohydric or dihydric alcohols, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0251] For example, the emulsion may comprise about 2 wt.%, about 10 wt.%, about 15 wt.%, about 20 wt.% or about 25 wt.% of an alcohol selected from the list consisting of C1 to C 10An alcohol in the list consisting of a monoalcohol or a diol, wherein the total amount of each component of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0252] In some embodiments, C1 to C 10 The monoalcohol or diol is a straight-chain or branched-chain C1 to C 10 Monoalcohol or diol. In some embodiments, the alcohol is selected from the list consisting of C1 to C6 monoalcohols or diols. In some embodiments, the C1 to C6 monoalcohols or diols are straight-chain or branched-chain C1 to C6 monoalcohols or diols. In some embodiments, the alcohol is selected from the list consisting of C1 to C4 monoalcohols or diols. In some embodiments, the C1 to C4 monoalcohols or diols are straight-chain or branched-chain C1 to C4 monoalcohols or diols.

[0253] In some embodiments, the alcohol is selected from the list consisting of C1 to C 10 Monoalcohol, C1 to C6 monoalcohol or C1 to C4 monoalcohol. The C1 to C4 monoalcohol can be methanol, ethanol, propanol or butanol. For example, the diol can be ethylene glycol. For example, the alcohol can be selected from methanol, ethanol or butanol (such as 1-butanol, isobutanol, sec-butanol or tert-butanol).

[0254] In some embodiments, C1 to C 10 The monoalcohol or diol can refer to two or more (such as two, three or four) alcohols, and each alcohol is independently selected from C1 to C 10 Monoalcohol or diol.

[0255] In some embodiments, the emulsion according to any of the embodiments described herein can contain about 0.5 to about 70 wt.% of a second alcohol, and the second alcohol is independently selected from C1 to C 10 Monoalcohol or diol, provided that the total amount of C1 to C 10 Monoalcohol or diol in the emulsion is about 1 to about 70 wt.%, and the total amount of each component in the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. For example, the emulsion can contain a first alcohol (such as methanol) and a second alcohol (such as ethanol), provided that the total amount of C1 to C 10 Monoalcohol or diol in the emulsion is about 1 to about 70 wt.%, and the total amount of each component in the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

[0256] In some embodiments, the ratio of glycerol to alcohol in the glycerol-containing phase is about 20:1 to about 1:5, for example, about 38:2 to about 1.5:2.5. In some embodiments, the ratio of glycerol to alcohol in the glycerol-containing phase is about 38:2, about 3:10; about 2.5:1.5; about 2:2, or about 1.5:2.5.

[0257] In some embodiments, the density of the glycerol-containing phase is from 0.8 g / mL to about 1.3 g / mL (measured using the method described in ISO 15212-1 at 25 °C).

[0258] Polymer stabilizer

[0259] In some embodiments, the emulsion comprises a polymeric stabilizer in an amount of from about 0.01 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%. Their content is preferably at most 0.25 wt.% of the emulsion. In embodiments, they are present in an amount in the range of 0.01 wt.% to 0.10 wt.%.

[0260] Polymeric stabilizers and flow improvers can be used to improve the static stability in storage by compensating for the density difference between the residue and the aqueous phase. They can also alter the viscosity characteristics of the emulsion. The polymeric stabilizing additive can form a weak "gelation" structure in the additive-containing aqueous phase, which helps to improve the static stability of the emulsion by keeping the hydrocarbon residue droplets separate and preventing sedimentation under static storage conditions. The weak gel structure can also impart a low resistance or yield to the applied stress to ensure suitable low viscosity characteristics of the emulsion, for example during pumping and handling. This performance is also recoverable, for example, once the emulsion fuel is pumped into a tank, it can regain its static stability characteristics. The polymeric additive interacts with other additives in the formulation through entanglement and binding mechanisms to form a gel of the molecular structure, thus helping to achieve this.

[0261] There can be one or more polymeric stabilizers and flow improvers. At least one polymeric stabilizer and flow improver is selected from polymers comprising monomers including dialkylaminoalkyl acrylates or dialkylaminoalkyl methacrylate quaternary ammonium salts, or dialkylaminoalkylacrylamides or dialkylaminoalkylmethacrylamides and their quaternary ammonium salts.

[0262] Examples of such polymer stabilizers and flow improvers include cationic polymers comprising at least one cationic monomer selected from: quaternary ammonium salts of dialkylaminoalkyl acrylates or methacrylates, such as methyl chloride quaternary ammonium salt of dimethylaminoethyl acrylate, methyl sulfate quaternary ammonium salt of dimethylaminoethyl acrylate, benzyl chloride quaternary ammonium salt of dimethylaminoethyl acrylate, sulfate of dimethylaminoethyl acrylate, hydrochloride of dimethylaminoethyl acrylate, methyl chloride quaternary ammonium salt of dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate, methyl sulfate quaternary ammonium salt of dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate, benzyl chloride quaternary ammonium salt of dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate, sulfate of dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate, hydrochloride of dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate, or dialkylaminoalkylacrylamides or dialkylaminoalkylmethacrylamides and their quaternary ammonium salts, such as acrylamidopropyltrimethylammonium chloride, methyl sulfate quaternary ammonium salt of dimethylaminopropylacrylamide, methyl sulfate quaternary ammonium salt of dimethylaminopropylacrylamide, sulfate of dimethylaminopropylacrylamide, hydrochloride of dimethylaminopropylacrylamide, methacrylamidopropyltrimethylammonium chloride, methyl sulfate quaternary ammonium salt of dimethylaminopropylmethacrylamide, sulfate of dimethylaminopropylmethacrylamide, hydrochloride of dimethylaminopropylmethacrylamide, diethylaminoethyl acrylate, diethylaminoethyl methacrylate, diallyldimethylammonium chloride and diallyldimethylammonium chloride.

[0263] Additional polymer stabilizers and flow improvers may be selected from one or more alkyl hydroxyalkyl cellulose ethers (water-soluble), preferably containing an alkyl group having 1 to 3 carbon atoms and a hydroxyalkyl group (such as hydroxyethyl or hydroxypropyl), wherein;

[0264] DS 烷基 is in the range of 0.1 to 2.5;

[0265] MS 羟烷基 is in the range of 0.2 to 4.0;

[0266] The weight average molecular weight is in the range of 100,000 to 2,000,000 Da (ideally 800,000 to 1,600,000 Da);

[0267] Examples include methyl ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose ether (water-soluble), preferably having

[0268] DS 甲基 is in the range of 0.3 to 1.5;

[0269] DS 乙基 is in the range of 0.1 to 0.7;

[0270] MS 羟乙基 is in the range of 0.2 to 3.0.

[0271] DS represents the degree of substitution of a specific component, and MS represents the molar substitution degree of a specific component.

[0272] Further examples of additional polymer stabilizers include the following, where (in the formulas represented below) R is H, CH3, and / or [CH2CH2O] n H.

[0273]

[0274] Examples of other polymeric stabilizers and flow improvers include guar gum, starch and starch derivatives, hydroxyethyl cellulose, and ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose.

[0275] acid

[0276] In some embodiments, the emulsion contains acid in an amount of from about 0.01 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, where the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%, optionally where the acid is selected from the group consisting of organic acids, inorganic acids, or mixtures thereof. Preferably, the emulsion contains acid in an amount of from about 0.01 wt.% to about 1 wt.% or from about 0.01 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%.

[0277] The acid can be added at any point during the emulsification process. For example, the acid can be added to: the water in the aqueous phase; an aqueous solution containing water and a surfactant; and / or the oil in the oil phase. The acid can also be included in the components used in the emulsification process. For example, the acid can be included in a mixture of a surfactant and an acid, a mixture of a C5 carbohydrate and an acid, and / or a mixture of a C6 carbohydrate and an acid.

[0278] Advantageously, the acid can be included in a component containing a C5 carbohydrate, a C6 carbohydrate, and / or a combination thereof. In this case, the component containing the required amount of acid for the final emulsion can be produced. Therefore, less additional acid (e.g., up to and excluding additional acid) may need to be added during the emulsification process.

[0279] In some embodiments, the emulsion and / or the aqueous phase has a pH value of 2 to 6, more preferably in the range of 2 to 4.5, or 3 to 4.5.

[0280] In some embodiments, the emulsion has a pH value of less than about 6. In some embodiments, the emulsion has a pH value of about 2 to about 6. In some embodiments, the emulsion has a pH value of about 4 to about 6. Preferably, the emulsion has a pH value of about 4 to about 5. For example, the emulsion has a pH value of about 2, about 3, about 4, or about 5.

[0281] In some embodiments, the aqueous phase has a pH value of less than about 6. In some embodiments, the aqueous phase has a pH value of from about 2 to about 6. In some embodiments, the aqueous phase has a pH value of from about 4 to about 6. Preferably, the aqueous phase has a pH value of from about 4 to about 5. For example, the aqueous phase has a pH value of about 2, about 3, about 4, or about 5.

[0282] The emulsion may comprise one or more organic acids. The organic acid contains at least one C-H bond, and examples thereof include uronic acid, propionic acid, methoxy acids, ferulic acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid, levulinic acid, methanesulfonic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, citric acid, p-toluenesulfonic acid, and benzoic acid.

[0283] At least one (optionally all) of the organic acids is preferably selected from ferulic acid, lactic acid, glycolic acid, levulinic acid, methanesulfonic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, p-toluenesulfonic acid, or a combination thereof. Preferably, at least one (optionally all) of the acids is selected from formic acid and methanesulfonic acid.

[0284] Emulsion

[0285] In some embodiments, the oil phase is dispersed in the aqueous phase. In some embodiments, the aqueous phase is dispersed in the oil phase.

[0286] In some embodiments, the emulsion has the following characteristics:

[0287] - An average droplet size (D[4,3]) of from 1 to 100 μm;

[0288] - Less than 3 wt.% of the droplets have a particle size greater than 125 μm; and

[0289] - A dynamic viscosity of at most 1000 mPas at 50 °C and 100 s -1 wherein the viscosity is measured on a Malvern Kinexus TM instrument.

[0290] In some embodiments, the emulsion has a droplet size (D50) between about 0.1 μm and about 100 μm. In some embodiments, the emulsion has a droplet size (D50) between about 0.1 μm and about 50 μm.

[0291] In some embodiments, the emulsion has a droplet size (D90) between about 0.1 μm and about 200 μm. In some embodiments, the emulsion has a droplet size (D90) between about 0.1 μm and about 100 μm.

[0292] In some embodiments, the emulsion has a dynamic viscosity of no more than 1000 mPas at 50 °C and 100 s-1, where the dynamic viscosity is determined by the method described herein. In some embodiments, the emulsion has a dynamic viscosity of no more than 500 mPas at 50 °C and 100 s-1, where the dynamic viscosity is determined by the method described herein.

[0293] The average droplet size distribution of the oil phase is measured using light scattering techniques with commercially available instruments such as a Malvern Mastersizer TM instrument. The average droplet size is expressed as the volume moment average, denoted as the D[4,3] average. The average droplet size is suitably in the range of 3 to 15 μm, although preferably in the range of 5 to 10 μm. Similar light scattering techniques and instruments can be used to determine the droplet size distribution and thus the weight percentage of droplets larger than 125 μm based on the volume equivalent sphere diameter. Suitably, the percentage of particles larger than 125 μm is less than 3 wt.%. Preferably less than 2 wt.%, more preferably less than 1 wt.%. In an embodiment, less than 0.5 wt.% can be achieved.

[0294] The dynamic viscosity is measured using standard techniques and equipment such as a Malvern Kinexus TM which measures the viscosity at a controlled temperature and shear rate. The value is expressed in mPas (cP) and is determined at 50 °C and a shear rate of 100 s -1 . Suitably, the value is at most 500 mPas under these conditions, more preferably at most 300 mPas, more preferably 50 to 300 mPas; more preferably 100 to 300 mPas. The dynamic viscosity can be measured after emulsion manufacture or after storage. The emulsions provided herein exhibit a dynamic stability of up to 500 mPas at at least one test point under the above conditions, such as after manufacture or after storage at 50 °C for 3 weeks, preferably exhibiting this dynamic stability both after manufacture and after storage at 50 °C for 3 weeks. Preferably, the emulsion exhibits a dynamic stability of up to 500 mPas at 50 °C and 100 s -1 after manufacture or after storage at 50 °C for 3 weeks.

[0295] Static stability is measured using the method defined in ASTM D6930-19 (Standard Test Method for Settlement and Storage Stability of Emulsified Asphalts). The density of the glycerol-containing phase is measured using any suitable method or instrument, such as using an Anton Paar DMA35 handheld densitometer. For example, the method defined in ISO 15212-1 is used. Alternatively, the density of the glycerol-containing phase can be calculated based on the components in the glycerol-containing phase (e.g., using the density of the components and the volume shrinkage of the mixture).

[0296] In one aspect, there is provided an emulsion composed of the emulsion described herein.

[0297] In one aspect, there is provided a dye composition comprising or consisting of the emulsion defined herein; optionally, wherein the fuel is diesel fuel, marine fuel or fuel oil for thermal energy and power generation applications.

[0298] Prepare emulsion

[0299] In one aspect, there is provided a method for preparing an emulsion, the method comprising the steps of:

[0300] Providing an oil;

[0301] Mixing water and a surfactant to form an aqueous solution;

[0302] Providing a C5 carbohydrate and / or a C6 carbohydrate; and

[0303] Mixing the oil, the aqueous solution with the C5 carbohydrate and / or the C6 carbohydrate under conditions sufficient to form an emulsion.

[0304] In some embodiments, the emulsion is the emulsion described herein.

[0305] In one aspect, there is provided an emulsion obtained / produced / formed from the method described herein.

[0306] In some embodiments, the C5 carbohydrate is mixed with water, surfactant and / or oil before the mixing step. In some embodiments, the C5 carbohydrate is mixed with water before the mixing step. In some embodiments, the C5 carbohydrate is mixed with the surfactant before the mixing step. In some embodiments, the C5 carbohydrate is mixed with the oil before the mixing step.

[0307] In some embodiments, the C5 carbohydrate is included in the C5-containing carbohydrate component. In these embodiments, prior to the mixing step, the C5-containing carbohydrate component is mixed with water, surfactant, and / or oil. The C5-containing carbohydrate component may include one or more selected from the group consisting of acids, C5 carbohydrate solvents, C5 carbohydrate derivatives, and / or degradation or dehydration products of hemicellulose. In this regard, each of the acid, C5 carbohydrate solvent, C5 carbohydrate derivative, and / or degradation or dehydration product of hemicellulose may be as described herein with respect to the emulsion.

[0308] In some embodiments, prior to the mixing step, the C6 carbohydrate is mixed with water, surfactant, and / or oil. In some embodiments, prior to the mixing step, the C6 carbohydrate is mixed with water. In some embodiments, prior to the mixing step, the C6 carbohydrate is mixed with surfactant. In some embodiments, prior to the mixing step, the C6 carbohydrate is mixed with oil.

[0309] In some embodiments, the C6 carbohydrate is included in the C6-containing carbohydrate component. In these embodiments, prior to the mixing step, the C6-containing carbohydrate component is mixed with water, surfactant, and / or oil. The C6-containing carbohydrate component may include one or more selected from the group consisting of acids, C6 carbohydrate solvents, C6 carbohydrate derivatives, and / or degradation or dehydration products of hemicellulose. In this regard, each of the acid, C6 carbohydrate solvent, C6 carbohydrate derivative, and / or degradation or dehydration product of hemicellulose may be as described herein with respect to the emulsion.

[0310] Preferably, the chemical additive forms an aqueous solution when mixed with water, although a suspension or emulsion is acceptable as long as it is well mixed with the oil phase to ensure the formation of a stable emulsion.

[0311] Examples of oils are provided above. The oil may be heated. Preferably, it is heated to a temperature sufficient to reduce its viscosity to below 500 cSt (e.g., in the range of 100 to 500 cSt or 200 to 500 cSt).

[0312] Preferably, it is heated to a temperature such that when mixed with the aqueous phase, the resulting temperature at the oil-water interface will be such that the viscosity of the oil phase is less than 10000 cSt. This will depend on the heat capacities of the aqueous phase (incorporating the chemical additive) and the oil, as well as their relative concentrations.

[0313] The relationship between the temperature at the interface and the initial temperatures of the aqueous and oil phases can be represented by the following equation:

[0314]

[0315] In the above equations:

[0316] T i = the oil / water interface temperature of the emulsion

[0317] T oil = the temperature of the oil phase before mixing (°C)

[0318] T aq = the temperature of the aqueous phase before mixing (°C)

[0319] C oil = the specific heat capacity of the oil phase (kJ / kg / °C)

[0320] C aq = the specific heat capacity of the aqueous phase (kJ / kg / °C)

[0321] [oil] = the proportion of the oil phase (wt%)

[0322] [aq] = the proportion of the aqueous phase (wt%)

[0323] The temperature of the oil phase (T oil ) before mixing is preferably such that the viscosity of the oil is in the range of 200 - 500 cSt. Although this depends on the source of the hydrocarbon, it is typically in the range of 110 to 230 °C.

[0324] The temperature of the oil / water interface after mixing (T i ) is preferably such that the viscosity of the oil is less than 10000 cSt. This temperature is preferably below the boiling point of the aqueous phase and is also the temperature for maintaining the thermal stability and phase stability of the chemical additives. Typically, this temperature is in the range of 70 to 150 °C, for example, 80 to 120 °C.

[0325] The temperature of the aqueous phase (T aq ) before mixing is selected according to the requirements of the above T i and T oil temperatures. It is typically in the range of 30 to 95 °C, for example, 50 to 90 °C, or 50 to 70 °C.

[0326] Instruments and techniques known to those skilled in the art, such as high-shear mixing instruments, can be used to achieve the mixing to form the emulsion.

[0327] In one embodiment, two separate and different emulsions are prepared and mixed to form a composite emulsion, which enables further control of the properties of the desired emulsion.

[0328] Figure 1 、 Figure 2 and Figure 3 give schematic diagrams of non-limiting examples of methods for preparing the emulsion. In Figure 1 、 Figure 2 andFigure 3 In, the box marked "glycerol" represents the optional addition of glycerol. In Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 In, the box marked "acid" represents the optional addition of acid. In Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 In, the box marked "polymer additive" represents the optional addition of a polymer additive. In Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 In, there are two boxes marked "polymer additive". However, only one such box may be required.

[0329] The box marked "source of residue" represents the source of any of the oils described herein.

[0330] In Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 In, the box marked "glycerol" may contain a C1 to C 10 monohydric or dihydric alcohol, where the emulsion contains a C1 to C 10 monohydric or dihydric alcohol. That is, the C1 to C 10 monohydric or dihydric alcohol can be mixed with glycerol.

[0331] In Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 In, the box marked "carbohydrate" may contain the C5 carbohydrates and / or C6 carbohydrates described herein. In Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 3 In, the box marked "carbohydrate" may contain the C5 carbohydrate component and / or the C6 carbohydrate component described herein.

[0332] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a non-limiting example of a method for preparing an emulsion is given. The designated area (1) represents the source of the oil used as the oil phase for producing the emulsion.

[0333] The designated area (2) represents a suitable source of water.

[0334] In the designated area (3), the material from the oil source (1) can be cooled to a suitable temperature through a medium for storage as needed and further temperature control as needed to achieve a viscosity of 250 to 500 cSt for direct introduction into the emulsion preparation unit (4). The water (2) is first heated in a heat exchanger (5) (usually heated to a range of 50 to 90 °C), which is also used to cool the final emulsion product (usually below 90 °C) and for auxiliary cooling (usually below 60 °C) to make the processing easier.

[0335] In region (6), a polymer stabilizer is optionally mixed into the aqueous phase, and subsequently in region (7), a surfactant, an optional organic acid, and an optional glycerol are added. If desired, the chemical additives can be varied to obtain an emulsified fuel having the desired specifications and performance criteria.

[0336] The chemical additives used (surfactant, optional organic acid, glycerol, optional C1 to C 10 monohydric or dihydric alcohols, and optional polymer stabilizer) preferably do not contain any components or impurities that would have a negative impact on the use of the resulting emulsion as a fuel. Thus, preferably, in the final emulsion fuel specifications, they contribute no more than 50 ppm of halogenated compounds and no more than 100 ppm of alkali metals.

[0337] The aqueous phase passes through a tank / vessel (8) that provides sufficient residence time for the acid to fully activate the surfactant. Then the aqueous phase and the oil phase are introduced into a high-shear colloid mill (9), and its speed is adjusted to mix the components in a timely manner. One or more colloid mills (10) can be used during the manufacturing process, depending on the number of emulsion component streams of different properties required (i.e., one for manufacturing a single-component emulsion fuel, or two or more for manufacturing a multi-component composite emulsion fuel). If more than one component is produced, then the different components can be mixed in the desired proportions either by an in-line mixer (11) or downstream to obtain the correct properties of the final emulsion fuel. In this way, the final desired droplet size distribution, hydrocarbon / water ratio (i.e., energy density), and viscosity / rheological characteristics can be effectively controlled.

[0338] After production, the emulsion fuel can be stored (12) for subsequent transportation and use as a fuel (13).

[0339] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of a non-limiting example of a method for preparing an emulsion is given.

[0340] In region (14), optional glycerol and a surfactant are mixed with a residue source to form an oil phase. In region (6), an optional polymer stabilizer is optionally mixed into the aqueous phase, and subsequently in region (7), additional surfactant and an optional organic acid are added. Then, the process proceeds as Figure 1 described.

[0341] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a non-limiting example of a method for preparing an emulsion is given.

[0342] In region (14), optional glycerol and a surfactant are mixed with a residue source to form an oil phase. In region (6), an optional polymer stabilizer is mixed into the aqueous phase, and subsequently in region (7), a surfactant, an optional organic acid, and glycerol are added. Then, the process proceeds asFigure 1 as described above. Then, the process is as Figure 1 described above.

[0343] Hydrocarbon residue evaluation, formulation, and emulsification process

[0344] The formulation of the emulsion can be optimized according to the properties of the oil (usually a hydrocarbon residue, such as one of those listed in Table 2).

[0345] The chemical additives and their concentrations that can be used for different hydrocarbon residues can be optimized by those skilled in the art. Preferably, the components are selected to ensure compliance with any relevant operating, performance, or legal requirements.

[0346] Definitions

[0347] The C5 or C6 carbohydrates described herein can be monosaccharides. The term "monosaccharide" (as opposed to oligosaccharide or polysaccharide) refers to a single unit without glycosidic linkages to other such units. It includes aldoses, disaccharides, aldoketoses, ketoses, and diketoses, as well as deoxysugars and amino sugars and their derivatives. Monosaccharides can be in their linear form (e.g., an acyclic compound containing a free aldehyde or ketone group) or their cyclized form (e.g., a cyclic compound containing a hemiacetal or hemiketal group).

[0348] In the specification, the term "unsubstituted or substituted with one or more substituents" can refer to being unsubstituted or substituted with at least one substituent selected from the group consisting of a deuterium atom, a halogen atom, a cyano group, a nitro group, an amino group, a silyl group, an oxy group, a thio group, a sulfinyl group, a sulfonyl group, a carbonyl group, a boron group, a phosphinyl oxide group, a phosphinyl sulfide group, an alkyl group, an alkenyl group, an alkynyl group, an alkoxy group, a hydrocarbon ring group, an aryl group, and a heterocyclic group. Optionally, one or more substituents are each independently selected from the group consisting of C 1-10 alkyl, C 6-10 aryl, acetyl, amino, nitro, or cyano. C 1-10 alkyl or C 6-10 aryl can each optionally be substituted with one or more selected from the group consisting of a hydroxyl group, an acetyl group, an amino group, a nitro group, or a cyano group.

[0349] Optionally, one or more substituents are each independently a C 1-10 alkyl group. For example, one or more substituents are each independently a C1 alkyl group, a C2 alkyl group, a C3 alkyl group, or a C4 alkyl group. Optionally, one or more substituents are each independently selected from methyl, ethyl, propyl (1-propyl or 2-propyl), and acetyl.

[0350] For example, when the C5 carbohydrate is a C5 carbohydrate substituted with one or more substituents, one or more of the substituents may substitute one or more hydrogen atoms in the C5 carbohydrate or the C6 carbohydrate. That is, one or more of the substituents may substitute one or more hydrogen atoms of the OH group in the C5 carbohydrate or the C6 carbohydrate.

[0351] The present invention described above can be implemented in various embodiments, non-limiting examples of which are described below.

[0352] Examples

[0353] Preparation of C5 and C6 Carbohydrates

[0354] In the presence of an inorganic acid and a compressed gas (such as nitrogen), crude liquid lignin oil (CLO) is produced by treating a lignocellulosic raw material (such as a lignocellulosic biomass raw material, such as wood chips or sawdust) with a polar organic solvent.

[0355] In this process, the lignocellulosic raw material is fractionated by the polar organic solvent, where the inorganic acid acts as a reagent to break the lignin-carbohydrate bonds present in the lignocellulosic matrix of the lignocellulosic raw material, thereby improving the release of lignin from the raw material, and the compressed gas keeps the polar organic solvent in the liquid phase, thereby allowing more lignin to be extracted and dissolved into the polar organic solvent.

[0356] The lignocellulosic raw material is provided into a reactor together with the polar organic solvent, the inorganic acid, and the compressed gas, and is treated under autoclave conditions.

[0357] Experiments were carried out for 30 to 120 minutes at different temperatures from 140 °C to 200 °C using birch hardwood or Douglas fir softwood fractionated in methanol, at different biomass / solvent ratios, using different acids with different acid concentrations, and compressed nitrogen or hydrogen at 10 to 30 bar.

[0358] After the reaction, the reaction mixture is subjected to vacuum filtration to separate the crude liquid lignin oil from the cellulose pulp residue of the separated solid raw material. The crude liquid lignin oil contains extracted low molecular weight oligomeric lignin fragments and some polysaccharides.

[0359] Since the plant cells in the lignocellulosic biomass raw material contain typical lignin-carbohydrate linkages, such as phenyl glycosides, benzyl ethers, and γ-ester bonds, effective cleavage is required for lignin extraction and utilization. However, the release of sugars cannot be prevented, and they may be converted into furfural, which may cause undesired repolymerization due to the lignin-furfural condensation reaction. The use of the acid hydrolysis step also releases some polysaccharides from the lignocellulosic matrix present in the lignocellulosic biomass raw material.

[0360] When sulfuric acid (H2SO4) is used, most of the hemicellulose is converted into methylated sugars such as methyl-pentopyranosides, methyl-D-glucopyranosides, methyl-D-xylopyranosides, methyl 3-O-acetylpentopyranosides, and dimethyl 4-O-methyl-hexopyranosides, as well as water / methanol-soluble oligosaccharides. The selectivity for the various sugars depends on the process conditions used, such as the amount of solvent or the strength of the acid. The methylated sugars can be separated from the lignin fragments by liquid-liquid extraction using, for example, ethyl acetate or water. High delignification is always accompanied by the release of a large amount of C5 sugars.

[0361] The amounts and conditions used for the experiments are shown in Table 4.

[0362] Table 4:

[0363]

[0364]

[0365] WT = wood type

[0366] WA = amount of wood (g)

[0367] Sol / WA = solvent (g): amount of wood (g)

[0368] Sacid = sulfuric acid (mmol / L)

[0369] Cgas = compressed gas (bar)

[0370] The birch sawdust and chips used in the examples and comparative examples contained approximately 23.6 wt.% lignin, while the Douglas sawdust contained approximately 29.9 wt.% lignin. The wood residues in the examples and comparative examples were air-dried at 60 °C.

[0371] Samples of the resulting crude liquid lignin oil (CLO) composition were subjected to further separation steps to form a C5 carbohydrate fraction and a lignin fraction. The CLO consists mainly of sugars (such as C5 and C6 methylated sugars), lignin oligomers, and organic molecules (such as methoxyphenol components), which are obtained when lignocellulosic solid feedstocks undergo a depolymerization process. The mild depolymerization process involves the cleavage of (relatively) weak ether bonds in the lignin-rich solid feedstock, as well as the decomposition of lignin into lignin oligomers and sugars, mainly methylated sugars. Examples of methylated sugars are methyl-pentopyranosides, methyl-D-glucopyranosides, methyl-D-xylopyranosides, methyl 3-O-acetylpentopyranosides, dimethyl 4-O-methyl-hexopyranosides, and mixtures thereof.

[0372] Perform a liquid-liquid extraction step (i.e., water) on CLO. Mix CLO (40 mL) with 120 mL of softened water, then stir vigorously and allow the lignin oligomers to precipitate. Filter the resulting mixture through a Gooch funnel filter. The aqueous phase can be subjected to a water evaporation step to concentrate the carbohydrates (C5, C6) to the desired concentration in water.

[0373] Form a fraction containing C6 carbohydrates by dilute acid hydrolysis of a cellulose-rich feedstock. Use the dilute acid hydrolysis method to convert the cellulose residue stream (microcrystalline MCC cellulose) derived from WO2021064047 (incorporated herein by reference) into a crude sugar oil (CSO) composition. Hydrolyze the cellulose-rich stream with sulfuric acid at a low concentration (up to 10 wt%) and a low-severity operating window (temperature up to 200 - 220 °C) to form a glucose-rich CSO. The residence time of the reaction is at most 1 hour, preferably up to 30 minutes. The residence time depends on the so-called integrated severity factor CS. CS depends on the pH value, reaction temperature, and residence time. However, degradation may be unavoidable. Therefore, some glucose derivatives are also present in the CSO composition. Carbohydrate derivatives / degradation products can be, for example, HMF, furfural, furan, levulinic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, and ferulic acid. The solution after the reaction is neutralized with CaO or Ca(OH)2 to remove sulfuric acid in the form of Ca(SO4)2 solid. Alternatively, sodium hydroxide or calcium hydroxide can also be used. The pH value after neutralization is about pH 6 - 7.

[0374] Alternatively, a cellulose-rich stream / feedstock can also be used, such as a cellulose-rich waste stream (cardboard, cartons, waste paper, newspapers, etc.), cellulose pulp and residues from biorefining, and microcrystalline MCC cellulose.

[0375] Prepare an emulsion

[0376] To prepare an aqueous phase containing additives (surfactant, optional acid, optional polymer stabilizer, optional glycerol, optional C5 / C6 carbohydrate solvent if present in the aqueous phase), the following steps can be used:

[0377] Heat the water used to prepare the test formulation to between 50 and 70 °C. Add the required amount of polymer stabilizer (if used) to the hot water and mix until completely dissolved.

[0378] If one or more acids are used, adjust the pH value of the solution to within the range of 2 to 6, preferably 2 to 4.5, or 3 to 4.5.

[0379] At this stage of preparation, a certain amount of surfactant, C5 carbohydrate, and / or C6 carbohydrate (and optionally glycerol) is added, the aqueous phase is mixed, and the pH is adjusted with additional acid until the desired pH is reached. This mixing continues until all the additives are dissolved and optionally activated.

[0380] The aqueous phase is then transferred to a laboratory-scale colloid mill system (e.g., DENIMOTECH TM SEP-0.3R emulsion research equipment, with a maximum production capacity of 350 L / h for producing emulsions, see Figure 4 ). Then, a certain amount of oil is introduced into the system and heated to the required temperature (45 °C) mentioned above.

[0381] Optionally or additionally, before feeding the oil into the colloid mill system, a certain amount of surfactant, C5 carbohydrate, and / or C6 carbohydrate (and optionally glycerol) is added to the oil and mixed with the oil.

[0382] Then the following procedure can be used to prepare the test emulsion;

[0383] Cooling water starts flowing to the system outlet heat exchanger.

[0384] The prepared aqueous phase is started to be pumped through the system by the colloid mill.

[0385] The mill is turned on, and a suitable medium-range speed is selected (e.g., 9000 rpm for the SEP-0.3R system). The back pressure on the system is adjusted to approximately 2 bar. Once a stable flow rate and temperature are reached, the hydrocarbon residue pump is started at a low flow rate and steadily increased until the desired flow rate is achieved (e.g., to reach the final hydrocarbon residue content in the emulsion). The system back pressure is adjusted to a level of approximately 2 bar. The flow rate of the water flowing to the final heat exchanger is adjusted to ensure that the emulsion flows out of the system at a temperature below 90 °C.

[0386] Once the system reaches steady-state operation (i.e., in terms of flow rate, temperature, and pressure), an emulsion sample is taken for testing and analysis.

[0387] After stopping the production pumping of the residue, the residue conveyance within the system is aborted, while maintaining the flow of the aqueous phase to flush the entire system.

[0388] During the subsequent evaluation and optimization process, the operating procedure of the laboratory-scale colloid mill system will remain unchanged, only the required process parameters and formulation variables need to be adjusted accordingly.

[0389] The process flow principle for large-scale production of emulsified fuel using a continuous online device will be consistent with the above description. According to the above test results, further formulation matrix tests can be carried out when necessary to fine-tune and optimize the emulsification response of the residue and the subsequent stability test results, with a focus on specific technical parameters and variables.

[0390] According to the above method, emulsions were prepared using the components listed in Tables 5 and 6, and characterized using a Malvern Mastersizer TM particle size analyzer.

[0391] Table 5

[0392]

[0393] Table 6

[0394]

[0395] Table 7

[0396]

[0397]

[0398] In Tables 5, 6, and 7:

[0399] Formic acid was used to adjust the pH.

[0400] HFO: Heavy fuel oil.

[0401] C5: C5 carbohydrate-containing component (C5 carbohydrate content in the water mixture is about 95 wt.%). Approximately 5 wt.% of water in the water mixture has been included in the total water content listed in Table 6.

[0402] C6-A: C6 carbohydrate-containing component (C6 carbohydrate content in the water mixture is about 3 wt.%). Approximately 97 wt.% of water in the water mixture has been included in the total water content listed in Table 5.

[0403] C6-B: C6 carbohydrate-containing component (C6 carbohydrate content in the water mixture is about 70 wt.%). Approximately 30 wt.% of water in the water mixture has been included in the total water content listed in Table 7.

[0404] AF134: Alkyl diamine ethoxylate.

[0405] The emulsions of the present invention (such as the emulsions in Tables 5, 6, and 7) have good stability and no creaming or sedimentation phenomenon. Therefore, the emulsions according to the present invention are particularly effective as fuels.

Claims

1. An emulsion comprising an oil phase and an aqueous phase; the emulsion comprising: from about 0.05 wt.% to about 1 wt.% of a surfactant; and from about 0.1 wt.% to about 95 wt.% of a C5 carbohydrate; and / or from about 0.1 wt.% to about 95 wt.% of a C6 carbohydrate; wherein the total amount of each component in the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

2. The emulsion according to claim 1, wherein, The C5 carbohydrate is selected from the group consisting of arabinose, lyxose, ribose, xylose, ribulose, xylulose, their cyclic forms, and mixtures thereof; wherein each arabinose, lyxose, ribose, xylose, ribulose, xylulose, and any of their cyclic forms is independently unsubstituted or substituted with one or more substituents.

3. The emulsion according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The emulsion contains one or more C5 carbohydrate derivatives; optionally, each of the one or more C5 carbohydrate derivatives is independently selected from the group consisting of furfural, tetrahydrofuran, methyltetrahydrofuran, 2-methylfuran, 2,5-dimethylfuran, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, furfuryl alcohol, tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol, or combinations thereof.

4. The emulsion according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The emulsion contains one or more degradation products or dehydration products of hemicellulose.

5. The emulsion according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The emulsion contains one or more C5 carbohydrate solvents; optionally, each of the one or more C5 carbohydrate solvents is independently selected from the group consisting of organic solvents, inorganic solvents, and mixtures thereof.

6. The emulsion according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, The C6 carbohydrate is selected from the group consisting of allose, altrose, glucose, mannose, gulose, idose, galactose, talose, psicose, fructose, sorbose, tagatose, their cyclic forms, and mixtures thereof; wherein allose, altrose, glucose, mannose, gulose, idose, galactose, talose, psicose, fructose, sorbose, tagatose, and any of their cyclic forms are independently unsubstituted or substituted with one or more substituents.

7. The emulsion according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The emulsion contains one or more C6 carbohydrate derivatives; optionally, each of the one or more C6 carbohydrate derivatives is independently selected from the group consisting of furfural, tetrahydrofuran, methyltetrahydrofuran, 2-methylfuran, 2,5-dimethylfuran, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, furfuryl alcohol, tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol, or combinations thereof.

8. The emulsion according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The emulsion contains one or more C6 carbohydrate solvents; optionally, each of the one or more C6 carbohydrate solvents is independently selected from the group consisting of organic solvents, inorganic solvents, and mixtures thereof.

9. The emulsion according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The C5 carbohydrate is contained in the oil phase, the water phase, or both the oil phase and the water phase simultaneously; and / or The C6 carbohydrate is contained in the oil phase, the water phase, or both the oil phase and the water phase simultaneously.

10. The emulsion according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The surfactant is a nonionic surfactant, anionic surfactant, cationic surfactant, zwitterionic surfactant, or a mixture thereof; optionally, the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of fatty alkylamines, ethoxylated fatty alkylamines, ethoxylated fatty alkyl monoamines, methylated fatty alkyl monoamines, methylated fatty alkylamines, quaternary fatty alkylamines, and combinations thereof.

11. The emulsion according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The emulsion contains water in an amount of from about 1 wt.% to about 95 wt.%, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

12. The emulsion according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein, The emulsion contains oil in an amount of from about 1 wt.% to about 99 wt.%, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

13. The emulsion according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The oil phase contains or consists of the following: (i) Hydrocarbon residues derived from one or more of the following: processed heavy crude oil or natural bitumen; atmospheric distillation in a refinery; vacuum distillation in a refinery; visbreaking, thermal cracking or steam cracking in a refinery; catalytic cracking in a refinery; hydrotreating and hydrocracking in a refinery; and deasphalting treatment; or combinations thereof; (ii) Hydrocarbon residues selected from those having the following Chemical Abstracts Service (CAS) registry numbers: 8052-42-4, 64741-45-3, 64741-56-6, 64741-67-9, 64741-75-9, 64741-80-6, 64742-07-0, 64742-78-5, 64742-85-4, 68748-13-7, 68783-13-1, 70913-85-8, 91995-23-2 or 92062-05-0, or combinations thereof; (iii) Heavy fuel oil, residual fuel oil or combinations thereof; (iv) Biofuels, bio-oils or combinations thereof; and / or (v) Combinations of any one of (i), (ii), (iii) and / or (iv).

14. The emulsion according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein, The emulsion contains alcohol in an amount of from about 0.05 wt.% to about 70 wt.%, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

15. The emulsion according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein, The emulsion contains a polymer stabilizer in an amount of from about 0.01 wt.% to about 0.5 wt.%, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%.

16. The emulsion according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein, The emulsion contains an acid in an amount of from about 0.01 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, wherein the total amount of the components of the emulsion does not exceed 100 wt.%; optionally wherein the acid is selected from the group consisting of organic acids, inorganic acids or mixtures thereof.

17. The emulsion according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein, The oil phase is dispersed in the water phase.

18. The emulsion according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein, The water phase is dispersed in the oil phase.

19. The emulsion according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein, The emulsion has a droplet size (D50) of from about 0.1 μm to about 100 μm.

20. The emulsion according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein, The emulsion has a droplet size (D90) of from about 0.1 μm to about 200 μm.

21. The emulsion according to any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein, The emulsion has a dynamic viscosity of not more than 1000 mPas at 50 °C and 100 s -1 wherein the dynamic viscosity is measured as described in the specification.

22. A dye composition comprising or consisting of the emulsion according to any one of claims 1 to 21; optionally, wherein the fuel is diesel fuel, marine fuel, or fuel oil for thermal energy and power generation applications.

23. A method for preparing an emulsion, the method comprising the following steps: Provide oil; Mix water and a surfactant to form an aqueous solution; Provide C5 carbohydrates and / or C6 carbohydrates; and Mix the oil, the aqueous solution with the C5 carbohydrates and / or C6 carbohydrates under conditions sufficient to form an emulsion.

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein, The emulsion is the emulsion according to any one of claims 1 to 21.

25. An emulsion obtained / produced / formed by the method according to claim 23 or 24.

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