METHOD OF PREPARATION OF EMULSIONS OF VISCOUS HYDROCARBON IN WATER WHICH INHIBITS AGING

摘要

A method for the preparation of a hydrocarbon in water emulsion from viscous hydrocarbons wherein aging of the emulsion over time is substantially eliminated comprises forming a concentrated emulsion characterized by a water content of less than or equal to 15%/wt. and an average oil droplet size of less than or equal to 4 microns and thereafter forming a final emulsion by diluting the concentrated hydrocarbon in water emulsion with water so as to obtain a water content of less than or equal to 30%/wt. and stirring said diluted emulsion so as to obtain a final hydrocarbon in water emulsion having an average oil droplet size of greater than or equal to 15 microns.