A linearized double layer model for laminar flow electrification of hydrocarbon liquids in metal pipes

When a low conductivity liquid, such as a hydrocarbon, flows through a metal pipe, an axial streaming current is generated and convected along the pipe into a collection vessel. Because the conductivity is so low, little upstream migration current occurs, and a potential difference arises between the pipe and the receiving vessel. This potential difference drives a return current along any electrical connection between the pipe and the vessel. Extensive measurements have been made of this “flow electrification”, since it causes explosion hazards in the petroleum industry. Likewise a large number of semi-empirical models are available for both laminar and turbulent flow. To date, however, no self-consistent theory exists to explain the flow electrification phenomenon based on accepted electrochemical principles