Utilization of Locally Formulated Chemical Demulsifier for Crude Oil Demulsification: A Review

Document Type : Review paper

Authors

1 Petroleum Eng. Dept., Federal University of Technology Owerri, Owerri, Nigeria.

2 Petroleum & Gas Eng. Dept., University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.

Abstract

Emulsion is a critical problem in the oil and gas industry, from production through refining. It must be prevented or treated by the oilfield operator to ensure that the crude oil meets API standards. Emulsions can be oil-in-water, water-in-oil, or multiple emulsions, and require crude oil, water, an emulsifying agent, and emulsifying conditions. Several approaches, including mechanical, thermal, electrical, and/or chemical, are used to manage emulsions in the oil and gas industry. Still, the chemical approach is most widely used due to its technical, economic, and environmental viability. The chemical demulsification technique involves adding chemicals to break the bonds between brine and crude oil, using mechanisms such as flocculation, coalescence, and sedimentation. Several demulsifiers are available, but these chemicals are expensive for developing countries and are not environmentally friendly. In this study, a comprehensive review of the demulsification performance of locally formulated demulsifiers was conducted. Based on the study's results, a comprehensive understanding of the emulsion formation concept, mechanism, and types is necessary for designing a suitable demulsifier. Nicotiana Tabacum recorded 73.33% efficiency, orange peel recorded 60% efficiency, while soya bean husk oil recorded 45% efficiency in demulsification. Camphor, Vegetable Oil, Alum, and Liquid Soap were identified as key ingredients in the formulation of a local demulsifier, each playing a distinct role. Speed and Temperature increase the demulsification of locally formulated demulsifiers. The demulsifier performance of the locally formulated demulsifiers can be optimized using software.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Journal of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering
Volume 60, Issue 1
June 2026
Pages 183-201

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  • Receive Date: 25 February 2025
  • Revise Date: 05 December 2025
  • Accept Date: 02 May 2026

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