Effects of Different Power High-intensity Ultrasonic Treatment on Rheological Properties of Heavy Oil Products

Objectives: The objective of this study is to investigate the effects produced by intensive ultrasound on rheological properties of oil and petroleum products, especially on heavy oil products with higher concentrations. Methods: Principal method of ultrasonic treatment is represented by the exposure to the highly intensive continuous ultrasound of different power during one and the same time of treatment. The basic objects of the investigation are represented by black oil grades M-100 and M-40. The relaxation of rheological properties of the objects of the investigation was observed over the period of 10 days upon ultrasonic treatment. Findings: As a result of the study the following regularities have been identified: considerable decrease in the substance viscosity after the treatment followed by the growth in the process of relaxation; in all cases the anomalous behavior of the substance viscosity has been observed in the process of relaxation; kinematic viscosity in all experiments did not reach its initial values that used to be measured before the treatment. This means that ultrasonic treatment is capable of reducing the viscosity of heavy oil products effectively over the period of time that is sufficient for producing the heavy grades of oil and for transportation of heavy oils and petrochemicals over considerable distances. Applications/Improvements: The results of this study can be used in oil extraction and refining industries in the processes of producing and transporting the heavy grade oils and petrochemicals.