Modeling emulsification after an oil spill in the sea

A conceptual model for simulating oil emulsification after a spill in the ocean is presented. This paper contains the complete model formulation and scenario simulations. The model formulation is based on the most up-to-date research information available in the literature. The model uses minimum turbulence energy as a criterion to determine whether emulsification occurs. Once the emulsification happens, the model simulates water uptake and viscosity changes during emulsification. The model classifies emulsion into three categories: stable, meso-stable, and unstable emulsions based on a concept “stability index”. The model estimates the stability of the emulsion and simulates the process of de-emulsification when the emulsion is meso-stable or unstable. The model also considers the effects of evaporation on the formation of emulsification. Scenario simulations show how different types of emulsions are formed under different conditions. They also show how the emulsion stability changes with oil weathering.