Estudio sobre la aplicación de nanopartículas para mejorar la recuperación de hidrocarburos

Abstract

Nanotechnology is the discipline the most acceptable around the world and its application in the Oil Industry has generated positive results, especially in the Enhanced Oil Recovery; For this reason, this paper selects the best nanotech alternative based on the collection of bibliographic material presented by authors related to the industry. Generalities and applications are presented in recovery processes, through a brief description of the properties of reservoirs and fluids, and recent nanotechnological advances in the different areas of the oil industry, such as exploration, drilling, completion, production, refining and enhanced recovery. In addition, pilot waterflood projects mentioned in five fields of Ecuador, the results have shown that the application of new technologies helps recover oil reserves. Next, the main nanoparticles and their potential applications in enhanced oil recovery are disclosed, showing that the oxide nanoparticles are the most researched and generating the best recovery results. By assessing oxide nanoparticles, the silica or silicon dioxide (SiO2) is the best alternative. Finally, conclusions and recommendations are manifested and scientific projects developed at the Escuela Politecnica Nacional, which not only will benefit the Ecuadorian oil industry, but also to the technological development of the country.