Application of entropy analysis of in situ droplet-size spectra in evaluation of oil chemical dispersion efficacy.

ABSTRACT

In situ droplet-size distributions were measured using a laser in situ scattering and transmissiometry (LISST-100X) particle size analyzer during the evaluation of natural and chemical dispersion efficiency of crude oils under different wave and current conditions. An entropy grouping of the in situ dispersed oil droplet-size spectra has classified the multi-modal droplet-size distributions into different groups based on similar droplet-size spectra characteristics within groups and distinction between groups. A generalized linear logistic regression model was fitted to analyze the effects of a number of factors and their interactions on the grouping of oil droplet-size spectra. The grouped results corresponded to the oil dispersion efficiency at different levels. This new method for droplet-size distribution data analysis can have significant implication in field evaluation of natural and chemical dispersion efficiency of oil.