Kinetic analysis and modeling of stability of bitumen-in-water emulsion stabilized by polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)

Description of emulsion stability is an essential aspect of process design and development for separation and production operations. In this investigation, bitumen-in-water emulsions were formed with bitumen contents (CB) of 50% and 70% w/w stabilized in the aqueous solution containing Polyvinyl alcohol and dissolved salt ranging from 0.5% to 3.5% w/w. Water separation under gravity was monitored in real time at isothermal condition. Data collected were used in evaluating kinetic parameters and developing model to predict the stability of emulsions with time. The model was found to adequately predict the emulsion stability under the conditions of the investigation.