Nanotechnology in general, and nanomaterials in particular promise countless opportunities to hydrocarbon recovery applications. Nanomaterials are not only small enough to go through tiny pores and pore throats in hydrocarbon reservoirs, but also provide: 1) an abundance of surficial sites for functionalization and loading with specific molecules, 2) manipulation through their surfaces, 3) new optical, electrical, chemical, and magnetic properties, and 4) multiple analogues of the same material with distinguishable properties and behaviors. These characteristics allow unique opportunities for hydrocarbon recovery applications. An example, similar to advanced medical treatment and diagnosis techniques, is smart reservoir nano-carriers loaded with single or multiple chemical treatments and/or tracers and autonomously deliver them to specific regions in the reservoir, where they are mostly needed. Realization of the benefits of nanoparticles in reservoir applications is, however, challenged by the harsh conditions (e.g., high temperature, salinity, and pressure) typical to most hydrocarbon reservoirs, as well as the economics of synthesis and field implementation. In this talk, a number of current and emerging reservoir nanomaterial systems for improving the efficiency, economy, and thus the sustainability of hydrocarbon recovery applications are presented. Successful home-grown technologies and their current and potential impacts are discussed. Finally, key challenges facing the full utilization of nanomaterials in reservoir applications, and best ways to overcome them, are summarized.

Nanomaterials transforming hydrocarbon recovery applications

ACS Fall 2021

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.