Laboratory studies on the separation of various oil–water emulsions in a high-frequency electromagnetic field

The separation of water–oil emulsions differing in the content and ratio of asphalt-resinous substances, as well as dielectric properties when exposed to a high-frequency (HF) electromagnetic field is investigated. The results of experimental studies are presented, showing the correlation between the degree of phase separation from dielectric parameters and the ratio of asphaltenes and resins in oils. It is shown that when water–oil emulsions are exposed to an HF electromagnetic field, the degree of heating and the efficiency of phase separation of the emulsion depend on the total content of asphaltenes and resins, their ratio, and whether the operating frequency of the generator falls within the region of resonant frequencies of the emulsions.