Self-assembly properties of ultra-long-chain gemini surfactant with high performance in a fracturing fluid application

A new cationic gemini surfactant (C25-6-C25), which had a special structure consisting of ultra-long hydrophobic chains and amide groups, was synthesized using a main feedstock source obtained from rapeseed for thickening purposes. The 12 mmol L-1 C25-6-C25 fluid containing 0.19 mol L-1 potassium chloride (KCl) exhibited highly elastic properties at the angular frequency of 0.04-10 rad s(-1). Its viscosity could be maintained at 55 mPa s for 1.5 h under a shear rate of 170 s(-1) at 110 degrees C and it also showed a good proppant-suspending property. C25-6-C25/KCl fluid exhibited high viscoelasticity and good performance, which were attributed to intermolecular forces, hydrogen bonding, and the shielding effect of electrostatic repulsion by KCl. Thus, C25-6-C25 is a very promising candidate for fracturing. (C) 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.