Real time detection of solids content in aqueous colloidal dispersions such as oil sands tailings using microwave sensors
OwnerSampsa GREUS, Mehrdad HESAMPOURinventors
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Abstract
Industrial methods which utilize microwave-based sensors to detect in real-time the total solids content of aqueous solid colloidal dispersions such as oil sands tailings streams are provided. Optionally, these microwave-based sensors may be utilized in combination with automatic cleaning systems or filters, which prevent sensor fouling and allow for extended sensor use without manual cleaning. The output signals from the microwave sensor are used to adjust desired process parameters, e.g., the dosage of chemical additives and/or to maintain total solids within specified limits.
Claims16
An industrial process for treating an aqueous colloidal dispersion that comprises the following:
- a) separating solids from water comprised in an aqueous colloidal dispersion, that comprises water and solids, and
- b) detecting and/or monitoring the solids content (suspended solids content) of an aqueous colloidal dispersion in real time with a microwave sensor, optionally wherein said method further includes detecting in real time one or more other parameters with sensors, e.g., (i) pH, (ii) particle size, (iii) temperature, (iv) pressure, (v) solid-liquid separation rate (vi) influx or efflux rate of colloidal dispersion, (vii) amount of free or dissolved air or CO2 in the detected sample or any combination of the foregoing.
An industrial system useful in separating water from solids comprised in an aqueous colloidal dispersion that comprises water and solids, optionally oil sands tailings, wherein the system comprises one or more microwave sensors that detect and/or monitor in real time the solids content of said aqueous colloidal dispersion as said industrial process proceeds.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.