Inline estimation of volume fraction in Newtonian emulsions based on ultrasonic velocity profiling viscometry

Abstract We propose a method for estimating volume fraction of emulsions based on ultrasonic velocity profiling viscometry and validate its feasibility through a series of experiments. The experiments involve emulsions composed of silicone oil as continuous phase and tap water with volume fractions ranging from 10vol% to 30vol%. We introduce the viscosity model for this emulsion to establish the mathematical relationship between volume fraction and viscosity. Subsequently, we calibrate this relationship using ultrasonic spinning rheometry (USR). The identified equation is then applied in estimating the inline volume fraction using ultrasonic velocity profiling combined with pressure drop measurement. The key idea is that by measuring the viscosity in a pipeline the volume fraction is then indirectly estimated employing the identified equation. Through the collection and analysis of experimental data, we confirmed that the USR can capture the characteristics of the emulsion viscosity accurately. Moreover, we found that this method demonstrates applicability and accuracy in measuring volume fractions of emulsions. The results indicate that the mean relative error for this estimation is 24.06% at a volume fraction of 10vol%, and 4.78% at a volume fraction of 30vol%.