Paper: Use of Chemical For Breaking Emulsions

As the production of oil increased, the emulsion problem increased. The companies, realizing that some better way of separating the water and oil had to be devised, installed large tanks, both wooden and steel, placing steam coils inside them. This method proved superior to the old pit system, however, it was far from perfect. Not only did the emulsion that was not treated create a disposal problem, but much of it was impossible to break down with the heat alone, consequently other methods were sought. Thus the first commercial treating chemical was used.