WATER-IN-OIL EMULSIONS: HOW THEY ARE FORMED AND BROKEN

ABSTRACT Studies on the formation of emulsions were summarized, and analytical methods used to determine the final results of the emulsion breaking process were evaluated. These include visual appearance, viscosity, zero-shear-rate viscosity, elasticity, water content, and conductivity. All but the latter two are useful for determining the stability of an emulsion. The development of four new tests was reviewed. These test the effectiveness of emulsion breakers in open and closed systems and emulsion preventers in open and closed systems. Results of testing on commercial products are presented.