Simplified separation of oil from sludges is effected with complete water separation by heating with a recyclable solvent such as toluene which forms an azeotropic mixture

摘要

Separation of oil-containing sludges by heating with a solvent and recycling the solvent is effected using a solvent (e.g. toluene) forming a heterogeneous azeotropic mixture with the aqueous component. The mixture is steadily mixed to give a slurry which is then heated to its boiling point. The saturated vapor is condensed and the aqueous component and the solid residue removed, this being continued to complete water separation by controlling the temperature increase.