Deemulsification

Deemulsification is the process of splitting a stable emulsion back down into its two original, separate liquid layers — essentially reversing emulsification. A range of techniques can achieve this: distilling off one component; adding an electrolyte, which neutralises the charge stabilising the droplets and destroys the emulsion; chemically destroying the emulsifier itself; using solvent extraction to selectively remove one component; freezing one of the components out; applying centrifugal force to separate the two liquids by density; adding a dehydrating agent, particularly effective for breaking a water-in-oil (W/O) emulsion; applying ultrasonic waves; and heating the emulsion at high pressure. …