Core-Shell Anionic Nano Microemulsion for Low Viscosity Crude Oil
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional microemulsion preparation methods are costly and inefficient, resulting in unstable nano-microemulsion systems with large particle sizes and poor dispersibility, limiting their application in industrial processes, particularly in the petroleum industry.
Innovation Solution
A core-shell structured anionic nano microemulsion system is developed using an anionic Gemini surfactant, N,N,N′,N′-dodecyl tetrasubstituted diphenyl ether sulfonate, which forms a spherical structure with a narrow particle size distribution, achieving stability and low interfacial tension, suitable for industrial production.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If high energy methods (high shear rate and high power ultrasound) are used to prepare microemulsions, then nano-sized droplets can be obtained, but the equipment is expensive, production cost is high, and stability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical parameters of the surfactant system by using Gemini surfactants with specific molecular structures (bis(2,6-diethylphenyl)ether-1,4-sulfonate and its derivatives) to achieve microemulsion formation at lower energy inputs. The surfactant's molecular structure parameters (HLB value, molecular weight) are optimized to enable spontaneous emulsification without high-energy mechanical processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces high-energy mechanical systems (high-shear mixers, ultrasonic processors) with a chemical self-emulsification approach. The Gemini surfactant system spontaneously forms microemulsions through chemical mechanisms, eliminating the need for expensive and energy-intensive mechanical equipment while achieving comparable or superior droplet sizes and stability.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional aqueous surfactants are used in low energy methods, then microemulsion particles can be formed, but the surfactant has non-diversity molecular structure, poor interfacial activity, large particle size, and serious agglomeration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite surfactant systems combining Gemini surfactants with co-surfactants (alcohols, carboxylic acids, or their salts) in specific ratios. This composite approach creates synergistic effects that enhance interfacial activity, control droplet size, prevent agglomeration, and improve overall system stability while maintaining low energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces lipophilic groups (aromatic rings, alkyl chains) at specific positions within the surfactant molecule to create local regions of different polarity. This local quality differentiation enhances the surfactant's ability to interact with both water and oil phases, improving interfacial activity and preventing agglomeration while maintaining small droplet sizes.
3Ease of manufacture
If low energy methods are used to prepare microemulsions, then preparation cost is reduced, but the process requires finely control of reaction conditions and has severe requirements for reaction systems
Solution Approach 1:
The Gemini surfactant system exhibits self-emulsification behavior, where the surfactant automatically organizes itself at the oil-water interface and forms stable microemulsions without requiring external energy input or complex process control. The system self-regulates droplet size, distribution, and stability through its molecular structure and interfacial properties, eliminating the need for sophisticated control systems.
4Quantity of substance
If conventional surfactants are used, then microemulsion can be formed, but the interfacial tension is high and viscosity reduction capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes the curved, spherical micelle structure formed by Gemini surfactants to maximize surface area contact at the oil-water interface. This spherical geometry provides superior interfacial coverage and tension reduction compared to planar surfactant arrangements, enabling ultra-low interfacial tension and enhanced viscosity reduction capability at lower surfactant concentrations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides a stable, low-cost, and efficient nano-microemulsion with ultra-low interfacial tension, capable of reducing crude oil viscosity, suitable for exploiting low permeability and shale oil and gas reserves.
Implementation Method 1
The invention belongs to the technical field of microemulsion, in particular to a core-shell structured anionic nano microemulsion system... the microemulsion has an ultra-low interfacial tension
Implementation Method 2
the microemulsion system has a large specific surface area and strong interfacial activity... the microemulsion has an ultra-low interfacial tension
Implementation Method 3
the microemulsion has a capability of reducing viscosity of crude oil
Data Source
AI summary
The invention discloses a core-shell structured anionic nano microemulsion system, and preparation and application thereof. The system comprises an anionic Gemini surfactant, an oil phase material, a solubilizer and water; wherein the microemulsion has a core-shell structure, with the outer shell being an anionic Gemini surfactant, and the inner core being an oil phase material. The anionic Gemini surfactant is N,N,N′,N′-dodecyl tetrasubstituted diphenyl ether sulfonate having the structural formula:The anionic nano-microemulsion system of the present invention is homogeneous and transparent, has a spherical core-shell structure, has a nanometer size (3 to 40 nm) as droplets, has a narrow particle size distribution, is not easy to agglomerate, has good stability, and has an ultra-low interfacial tension and a capability of reducing viscosity of crude oil.