Resin acids emulsifying effect

Although they are a relatively small volume product—approximately 75,000 tons produced in 1949 (126)—interest in asphalt emulsion has continued at a high level. Abraham (6) has reviewed the patent literature relative to the types of emulsifying agents used, while commercial practice has been discussed by Day (16). The most common emulsifiers are sodium or potassium soaps of tall oil, abietic acid, or Vinsol resin, or colloidal clays such as bentonite for adhesive base emulsions. Lyttleton and Traxler (53) studied the flow properties of asphalt emulsions, and Traxler (122) has investigated the effect of size distribution of the dispersed particles on emulsion viscosity. A decrease in particle size uniformity was found to be accompanied by a decrease in consistency because particles of various size assume a more loosely packed condition than do those of the same size. 

Currently, the commercial systems available that will result in the deepest penetration of acid are emulsified acid and, perhaps, surfactant-gelled acid. Viscous acids may contain a fluid-loss additive, such as an oil-soluble resin or polymer, to reduce leak-off. Particulate diverters are not effective in fracture acidizing, but in matrix treatments, they can make a difference. 

---