Evaluation of the wettability alteration on sandstone rock by graphene oxide adsorption

One of the most important parameters of a crude oil recovery process is the interaction of rock-crude oil. In order to alter the positive interaction rock-crude oil, several chemical systems have been proposed. In this study, we use graphene oxide (GO) to alter the positive interaction between sandstone rock and crude oil. In order to evaluate the alteration of the interaction rock oil, we measured the change in the contact angle water sandstone and oil sandstone. In addition, we have measured the interfacial tension (IFT) modification due to the presence of GO in the fluids. The combined effects of graphene oxide concentration, salinity, and pH on interfacial tension and contact angle have been evaluated. The results show that despite GO has not produced significant changes in interfacial tension, the adsorption of GO on the sandstone surface changes the wettability of the sandstone from being strongly crude oil-wet to intermediate crude oil-wettability. Measurements of the contact angle of the treated rock surface with GO solution under soft salinity conditions and pH of 8 show that adsorbed GO can alter the wettability of sandstone from 150 to 90 degrees. In order to corroborate the change in wettability, Amott-Harvey tests were performed. The formation brine and crude oil were subjected to fluid-fluid compatibility tests. These evaluations confirmed a favorable compatibility with the formulation containing 900 ppm of total dissolved solids (TDS), pH 8, and 900 ppm of GO. As a result, it is considered a potential candidate for coreflooding tests.

Automated summary

This study demonstrates the use of graphene oxide to alter the interaction between sandstone rock and crude oil. Results show that while interfacial tension did not significantly change, the adsorption of graphene oxide on the rock surface altered the wettability of the sandstone, improving the recovery process.