Technological advances and operational challenges of the FAWAG (Foam-Assisted Water Alternating Gas) method in advanced oil recovery: a comprehensive review of principles, applications, and future perspectives

This article presents a comprehensive review of the technological advancements and operational challenges associated with the FAWAG (Foam-Assisted Water Alternating Gas) method in advanced oil recovery, with a particular focus on its fundamental principles, practical applications, and future perspectives. The study underscores FAWAG as a robust and adaptable technique capable of overcoming the limitations of conventional Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) methods, particularly in reservoirs characterized by high heterogeneity, extreme pressure, and elevated temperature conditions. Recent innovations, including the development of thermally stable foams and biodegradable surfactants, as well as the integration of artificial intelligence and advanced modeling for real-time optimization, further reinforce its relevance in the context of energy transition and environmental compliance. Comparative analyses with traditional methods, global case studies, and regulatory perspectives are examined to highlight FAWAG's strategic role in maximizing sweep efficiency and enabling sustainable operations. This work consolidates FAWAG as a state-of-the-art solution to address the challenges of the oil and gas industry, fostering a critical interface between innovation, sustainability and competitiveness.