Semi-batch and continuous production of Pickering emulsion via direct contact steam condensation

We propose a versatile strategy for the production of highly stable water in oil Pickering emulsion by direct contact condensation of steam. In contrast to conventional methods that use mechanical energy for creating drops, the condensation of steam brought in contact with a non-aqueous colloidal dispersion is exploited to produce Pickering emulsions in two modes of operation, namely, semi-batch and continuous. As steam that comes in contact with oil condenses into water drops, the particles adsorb to the interface and thus arrest drop-drop coalescence. The adsorption of particles on the drop's surface imparts kinetic stability to the emulsions. The dependence of size of the emulsions as a function of parameters such as steam temperature, flow rate, particle type and particle concentration is investigated. We show that the tailoring of these parameters allows a precise control over droplet size distribution. The flexibility of continuous mode of operation makes it a potential technique for large scale production of emulsions suited for many applications.

Automated summary

A versatile strategy for producing highly stable water in oil Pickering emulsions by direct contact condensation of steam is proposed in this study. The condensation of steam with a non-aqueous colloidal dispersion can produce emulsions in semi-batch and continuous modes of operation, with precise control over droplet size distribution achievable by adjusting parameters. The flexibility of continuous operation makes it a potential technique for large-scale emulsion production for various applications.