Abstract What is disclosed is a method of encapsulating hydrocarbon systems with the combination of an emulsifier solution and a reactive silicate solution. The method comprises the addition of an emulsifier solution to a hydrocarbon, for example, crude oil, then adding the reactive silicate solution to the emulsifier solution and hydrocarbon mix. Upon adding the reactive silicate solution the mix changes to a thick gel consisting of agglomerates of microspheres having typical diameters of 2 to 4 micrometers and less. The agglomerates are only loosely bound and the microspheres are easily dispersable into individual entities. Upon drying the wet gel yields a free-flowing powder. The encapsulation does not chemically alter or degrade the oil in any way.
A method of encapsulating a hydrocarbon to minimize its toxic effect on the environment, comprising: mixing the hydrocarbon with an acidic emulsifier to disperse the hydrocarbon into droplets; and then, mixing the resultant mixture with an aqueous solution of a water soluble silicate, resulting in the formation of substantially amorphous silica shells surrounding the droplets, wherein the hydrocarbon is not chemically altered or degraded in any way.
Claim 2
Independent Claim
67 words
A method of encapsulating a hydrocarbon to minimize its toxic effect on the environment, comprising: mixing the hydrocarbon with an acidic emulsifier to disperse the hydrocarbon into droplets; and then, mixing the resultant mixture with an aqueous solution of a water soluble silicate, resulting in the formation of substantially amorphous silica shells surrounding the droplets, wherein the hydrocarbon is not chemically altered or degraded in any way.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
17 words
The method of claim 1 wherein the water soluble silicate is a silicate of an alkali metal.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
13 words
The method of claim 1 wherein the water soluble silicate includes potassium silicate.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
15 words
The method of claim 1, 2 or 3 wherein the emulsifier contains an organic acid.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
15 words
The method of claim 1, 2 or 3 wherein the emulsifier contains an inorganic acid.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
26 words
The method of claim 1, 2 or 3 wherein the emulsifier contains a surface active agent or blend of surface active agents capable of hydrocarbon emulsification.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
28 words
The method of claim 1, 2 or 3 wherein the emulsifier contains a solvent or a blend of solvents capable of forming an aqueous dispersion with the hydrocarbon.