An alternative method to enhance w/o emulsion stability using modified dimer acid and its application in oil based drilling fluids

This study presents an alternative method to enhance the emulsion stability of oil based drilling fluids (OBMs). Modified dimer acid (MDA) was synthesized with a molecular structure having two hydrophilic heads and two hydrophobic tails. Theoretically, the adsorption of MDA on an oil–water interface makes it possible to increase hydrogen bonding between water droplets and form three dimensional networks which benefit emulsion stability. The influence of MDA on the stability of base emulsions was studied by visual observation. Then the stabilization mechanism of MDA was analyzed from the micro and macro points of view by morphology study using a cryo-scanning electron microscope (cryo-SEM) and rheological measurements including viscosity vs. shear rates, zero-shear viscosity (η0), and creep and recovery tests. Experimental results showed that a substantial improvement in emulsion stability was visually observed when the MDA concentration was 2 g L−1. From cryo-SEM observation, a honeycomb structure was observed in the emulsion containing 2 g L−1 MDA, which can provide a physical barrier to restrain the movement of water droplets. In comparison with the rheological behaviors of the emulsion without MDA, a remarkably larger zero-shear viscosity, a solid-like behavior and a greater elasticity were observed when 2 g L−1 MDA was present. Finally, the application in OBMs shows that MDA can largely enhance electrical stability (ES) and reduce the filtration volume. The method proposed in the paper could be used to enhance the stability of w/o emulsions in a variety of fields.