OPTIMIZATION OF JP-4 FUEL EMULSIONS AND DEVELOPMENT OF DESIGN CONCEPTS FOR THEIR DEMULSIFICATION
Abstract
Optimization of a emulsified fuel (MEF) was accomplished following evaluation of a 168 formulation matrix. Thermal and storage stability was best when a 1% to 2% excess of acid was used to neutralize the tallow amine emulsifier. Emulsion droplet size was shown to be more a function of preparation than of thermal effect or aging. Attempts at improvement of an MEF- 1 formulation from the investigation by using coupling agents or corrosion inhibitors were unsuccessful. However, change in emulsifier from tallow amine to oleyl amine markedly improved thermal stability and minimized yield stress value variation at extremes of temperature. Substitution of glycolic acid for acetic acid (the MEF-2 formula) reduced mild steel corrosion to near zero proportions and reduced cuprous metal corrosion to one-third that of the MEF formula. Evaluation of the MEF-2 formula showed that the initial viscosity decreased on storage due to loss of emulsified air and concurrently increased in density. Microbial resistance equalled that of JP-4, vapor loss was the same as that of the original MEF, and heat transfer properties were poorer than those of JP-4. Recovery of JP-4 by breaking the emulsion by mechanical shear was possible by two general techniques: pressure drop through a small orifice or passage through orifices of micron dimensions. Maximum JP-4 recovery was 90% at laboratory rates of 10 gpm using a pressure drop orifice-vibrating reed system. Another potential system comprised passage through membranes with micron-sized perforations. Both systems require a coalescer to assure maximum removal of suspended external phase.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1968
- Accession Number
- AD0683597
Entities
People
- Edward A. Steinmetz
- Jay C. Harris
Organizations
- Monsanto