An experimental study on enhanced oil recovery utilizing nanoparticle ferrofluid through the application of a magnetic field

Enhanced oil recovery (EOR) is a significant target in oil engineering, and in this regard nanoparticle suspension flooding remains a challenging task. Therefore, in this study, suitable magnetic nanoparticles were synthesized for injection into a porous medium and then characterized. In addition, the utility of the synthesized nanoparticles for EOR with and without the application of a magnetic field was studied through a core flooding experiment. The oil recovery increased when a magnetic field was applied in comparison to without such an application owing to a better distribution and the utility of the magnetic nanoparticles in creating a column toward the direction of the magnetic field in the pore channels, which acts like a piston and can sweep the oil and thereby increase production. (C) 2017 The Korean Society of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.