Nanoparticles for Enhanced Oil Recovery: A comprehensive review

Abstract

Despite the enormous impact of enhanced oil recovery (EOR), oil reserves all over the world are in a phase of diminishing production. Although Tertiary Stage EOR is extremely effective, some oil is still bypassed. The reason is that surface forces responsible for holding oil inside the rock surface are not being altered by the application of existing technologies. Materials nanosized are showing a significant role in EOR techniques and is a promising approach to increase crude oil production, as is revealed by the scientific literature in the domain. It is also an interesting fact that in different operational conditions and parameters, the performance of nanoparticles also varies and some are more effective than others, which leads to various levels of recovery in the EOR process. In the present study, we intend to summarize a report having an up-to-date status on nanotechnology-assisted EOR mechanisms where nanoparticles are used as nano-catalysts, nano emulsions, and nanoparticles assisted EOR mechanisms to destabilize the oil layer on carbonate surface. Afterward, the study focuses on various applications of nanoparticles on EOR. The nanoparticles of various types, have been considered in the EOR process are reviewed with regards to their associated properties, their functioning, and also their advantages, and disadvantages. We then focus upon the parameters and guidelines that affect the performance of nanoparticles in EOR process, and also the recommendations for propitious oil recovery are highlighted. Laboratory experimental as well as computational simulations both are considered as an adequate approach to gain more microscopic insights into the oil displacement process to classify the suitability of nanomaterials. The purpose of this review article is to put forward the vast knowledge and competence expertise associated with experimental and computational nanotechnology applications in the EOR process.