On the application of NiO nanoparticles to mitigate in situ asphaltene deposition in carbonate porous matrix

Prevention of asphaltene formation in reservoir rocks can result in resolving a severe long-lasting issue in petroleum production. The present research addresses the issue in the context of exploring the potential effect of nickel oxide (NiO) nanoparticles in destabilizing asphaltene deposition in porous media, in the presence of carbon dioxide. To ensure proper distribution within the system and to retain future field-scale applicability, the NiO nanoparticles were exposed to the in situ oil via injection gas stream, in which they had been uniformly dispersed using polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). The experimental results, established under miscible CO2 state, indicate a considerable improvement in permeability/porosity reduction of core, as well as less asphaltene accumulation in porous media and increased oil recovery factor after applying NiO nanoparticles.