A Li̇qui̇d Phase Extracti̇on Process for the Removal of Organi̇c Matter From Oi̇l Formati̇on Waters

Abstract

In order to separate asphaltene-resin compounds from oil formation waters, it is possible to use the solubility of these substances in another liquid that is not soluble in treated water. If we add such a liquid to the waste water and mix it, then these substances (asphalten-resin compounds) will dissolve in the added liquid and their concentration in the waste water will decrease. This physico-chemical method is based on the law of distribution between phases according to the solubility of the substance when mixing mutually insoluble substances. This method of removing dissolved substances from wastewater is called liquid-phase extraction process; dissolved substances removed at this time - extractable substances; the liquid that is added and does not mix with waste water is called extractant. The liquid phase freed from pollutants is called raffinate. There are several requirements for the extractant - it should form an emulsion with water (because this leads to a decrease in the production capacity of the unit and an increase in solvent loss), regeneration should be easy and it should not have toxic effects. Studies conducted on the ability of aromatic hydrocarbons, including toluene, to form a stable emulsion system with water have led to the fact that aromatic hydrocarbons can be used as extractants in the process of more effectively purifying water from asphaltenes [1, 2] . Keywords: oil formation waters, extractant, liquid phase extraction process, extraction efficiency, isotropic turbulent flow, mass transfer coefficient.