Synergy of the flow behaviour and disperse phase of polysaccharide nanoparticles derived from Corchorus olitorius in enhancing oil recovery at an offshore operation

Abstract

The escalating global energy demand necessitates enhanced oil recovery methods, particularly offshore. Biological nanotechnology offers sustainable, environment-friendly, and cost-effective alternatives to synthetic chemicals. This study explored the synthesis of polysaccharide-based nanoparticles (PNPs) from Corchorus olitorius leaves using a weak acid-assisted ultrasonic method and their application as nanocomposites for oil recovery. The PNPs were characterised using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, zeta potential, and 1H NMR analyses. Performance assessments included rheological properties under varying temperatures and shear rates, interfacial tension (IFT) via the pendant-drop method, and core flooding to evaluate the oil recovery. The weak acid-assisted ultrasonic method produced PNPs with sizes ranging from 35 to 175 nm, exhibiting stable hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties. Rheological tests showed viscosity dependence on PNP concentration, with viscosity decreasing as the temperature increased. Salinity amplified the viscosity at higher PNP concentrations (>1.5 wt%). The PNPs enhanced the nanocomposite stability by reducing the consistency index, increasing the flow behaviour index, and minimising shear thinning. The PNP fluid improved oil recovery by 3.77 %, achieving a total recovery of 60.30 %. Combining PNPs with mucilage further increased recovery by 18 %, resulting in a total recovery of 75.52 %. The cost-effectiveness of PNP production makes it a viable solution for large-scale oil-recovery applications.