The interfacial tensions between solutions containing NaOH and ORS-41,and crude oil were demonstrated to be a function of the two components.Surfactant ORS-41 film characteristics changed as a function of the alkali concentration showing interactions between alkali and surfactant.The polyacrylamide has little effect on the surfactant monolayer at high surface pressure,but has considerable effect at low surface pressure.The w:o emulsion stability was kinetically determined through the use of the conventional bottle test.Both surfactant and alkali has a significant effect on emulsion stability.Polymer has little effect on the emulsion stability at higher ORS-41 concentrations.Emulsion stability varied as a result of chemical interactions effecting interfacial tension and interfacial film strength.