Addition of small amount of surfactants or polymeric additives may reduce the drag in
multiphase flow systems. This chapter presents an overview on the available studies of drag reduction with
surfactants and polymeric additives in multiphase flow including gas-liquid two-phase flow, liquid-liquid
two-phase flow and gas-liquid-liquid three-phase flow. First, the research background of drag reduction
technologies with additives is presented. Then, basic knowledge of drag reduction surfactants and polymeric
additives is briefly described. Measured physical properties of surfactant and polymer solutions such as
surface tension and viscosity are shown. Next, the drag reduction mechanisms of polymer and surfactant
solutions are discussed. The, comprehensive review on the available studies on drag reduction with
polymers and surfactants in multiphase flow is presented. The mechanisms are also reviewed. Based on the
present review, future research needs are discussed and recommended.
Keywords: Multi-phase flow, drag reduction, surfactant, polymer, additive, flow pattern, gas-liquid two
phase flow, liquid-liquid two phase flow, gas-liquid-liquid three-phase flow, mechanisms.
