Nanoparticles Transport in Porous Media During EOR Operations: A Wide-Ranging Review of Mechanisms, Mathematical Models, Influencing Parameters, Challenges, and Prospects

Abstract

Nanofluids’ stability and promise have made nanoparticles (NPs) popular in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) projects. Chemical-EOR solutions composed of polymers and surfactants are extremely effective in oil recovery; nevertheless, they deteriorate and lose efficacy at rising temperatures and salinities, rendering them less effective. Nanofluids may endure these reservoir conditions due to their exceptional properties. Fluids and rocks’ characteristics and interactions in porous media have changed due to NP surface features, promoting EOR. NP behaviour and roles in porous media must be understood before using NPs in subterranean projects. This work aims to improve understanding of NPs in porous medium to help construct NPs-EOR projects. In response to subsurface EOR developments, this paper discusses NP behaviour, mathematical models, and transport mechanisms, influencing factors, challenges encountered and EOR NP application prospects. The work equally addresses NP-based EOR issues, emphasizing the need for more research. The review found that NPs reduce interfacial tension and slipperiness to improve compatibility between incompatible fluids. Through nanofluid movement in porous media and EOR processes, injection rate, NP diameter, chemical composition, surface properties, and nanofluid concentration all affect their transport and oil recovery.