Work

Glycerol Carbonate as an Emulsifier for Light Crude Oil: Synthesis, Characterization, and Stability Analysis

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: This study focuses on the synthesis and application of glycerol carbonate (GC) as an emulsifier for light crude oil. GC was synthesized from glycerol and dimethyl carbonate via transesterification, achieving a 90% yield. Characterization through 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, and FT-IR confirmed its structure. The emulsification properties of GC were tested by mixing it with light crude oil and water, demonstrating effective emulsification and forming stable emulsions. Stability tests with GC concentrations of 60/40, 70/30, and 80/20 revealed that emulsions remained stable for over 24 h. A particle size analysis indicated that higher GC concentrations produced smaller droplet sizes, enhancing the emulsification efficiency. This study highlights the potential applications of GC in oil spill remediation and enhanced oil recovery, emphasizing its biodegradability and low toxicity as environmental benefits. Overall, GC is presented as an effective and eco-friendly emulsifier for light crude oil, offering stable emulsions and promising industrial applications.

Source: Molecules

DOI: 10.3390/molecules29204937

Authors: Ana Beatriz Morales Cepeda, Elda Elizabeth Villalobos Neri, Luis Alejandro Macclesh del Pino Pérez, Eric Joaquin Gonzalez Pedraza

Institutions: Instituto Tecnológico de Ciudad Madero, Tecnológico Nacional de México, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México

Language: English

Topic: Surfactants and Colloidal Systems

Subfield: Organic Chemistry

Field: Chemistry

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,069