Enhanced Acoustic Separation of Oil-Water Emulsion in Resonant Cavities

ABSTRACT

This paper explores the use of acoustics for the recovery of oil in oil-water emulsions. A series of experimental studies were conducted using acoustic standing waves in resonant cavities as means of trapping oil droplets and enhancing oil separation. Several cavity configurations were explored and the frequency range used was between 1 MHz-2 MHz. Oil-water emulsions studied were made using mineral oil and motor oil.