Features of oil disperse systems and changes in their properties under low-energy wave action

Objectives. To analyze the properties, dispersion structure, and intermolecular interactions in oil disperse systems (ODSs) of various component compositions, and to consider the possibilities of controlling phase transitions in an ODS to achieve the most favorable dispersion properties for carrying out technological processes of refining hydrocarbons, upgrading petroleum products, or recycling oil waste. Phase transitions are proposed to be controlled by low-energy wave action (low-frequency ultrasound, constant magnetic field with low induction). Results. The following features of oil disperse systems are considered and substantiated with literature data and the results of our own research: multiplicity of phases; diversity of hydrocarbon components and heteroatomic compounds contained in them; the nature of intermolecular interactions (the absence of charge interactions and the presence of charge–polarization and exchange spin-spin interactions); spin activity or paramagnetism of oil, petroleum products, and their various components; homolytic dissociation of highmolecular-weight and heteroatomic organic compounds, resulting in an increase in paramagnetism; as well as the presence of trace elements contained in organometallic compounds and in salts dissolved in emulsified water. An equation is presented for intermolecular interactions in ODSs, in which a decisive role is played by the exchange interactions caused by the presence of spin and spin-polarized molecules. Two-component models are described for the shells of complex structural units of the oil disperse system, their structure, and their interaction with the dispersion medium. Methods for controlling phase transitions and dispersity of ODSs are shown. Special attention is paid to low-energy wave technologies (ultrasonic waves with a frequency of 20–100 kHz with an intensity of up to 0.4 W/cm 2 and a constant magnetic field with an induction of less than 0.4 T). Examples are given for the intensification of such technological processes as separation of water–oil emulsions, removal of mechanical impurities, atmospheric and vacuum distillation, selective purification of oil fractions, degassing of heavy fuel oil to remove hydrogen sulfide, visbreaking, and others. Positive results are demonstrated for the application of low-energy technologies for reduction of the viscosity and pour point of oil and petroleum products in oil refining equipment. The study proposes a mechanism of the influence of a constant magnetic field on the flow of petroleum product or hydrocarbon raw material. Conclusions. The study of the features of ODSs is key to the qualified colloid-chemical approach to processes of production, transportation, and processing of hydrocarbon raw materials. They are seen from the standpoint of ODS theory on the basis of the consideration of the dispersion structure and phase transitions in ODSs. Low-energy technologies in the petroleum industry are an effective tool for resource saving in various processes and optimization of their parameters without significant material costs.