Optimization of Desalting of Crude Oil

The escalating demand for oil as an energy source has led to the depletion of light crude oil reservoirs, prompting exploration of alternatives such as heavy crude oil. However, heavy crude oil's complex composition, including salts, poses challenges during processing, particularly in refining. To get the salt out water emulsifiers are used to mix the water with the crude oil. Effective separation methods to separate the water retaining the salt out of the oil include, demulsification using silicon-based compounds, electroporation, and heat.