Development of Superoleophilic Coating for High-Efficiency Oil and Water Separation

Oil/water separation is one of the most challenging processes in oil production processes. Materials with superoleophilicity can selectively filter or absorb oil from oil/water mixtures. These materials can be highly efficient with a minimum footprint in the selective separation of oil and water. They can also be designed to be integrated with many conventional oil/water separation processes/equipment, for instant, the boost of separation efficiency. In this project, a surface modification technology will be developed for metal mesh for the fabrication of superoleophilic functional materials; multiple coating and surface modification techniques will be tested and optimized; separation efficiency and durability will be examined under various operational settings; the prototype mesh will be coupled with commercially available screens, and its performance will be comprehensively examined. More developments will be carried out that will focus on process design and cost analysis. Multiple solutions will be designed and investigated to reduce water accumulation. The proposed technique is a highly feasible, economical solution for downhole oil/water separation. It will be design to be compatible with in-situ mechanical conditions, and can be easily integrated with many conventional oil/water separation process/equipment for an instant boost of separation efficiency.

Faculty Supervisor:

Gordon Huang

Student:

Partner:

Petroleum Technology Research Centre

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Mining; Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Regina

Program: