Leading scientists are developing an innovative method for extracting tight oil using hybrid nanoparticles. The technology will not only increase production volumes, but also reduce the burden on the environment.
Every year, traditional oil fields are depleted, and more and more countries are switching to the extraction of hard-to-recover reserves. In Russia they already account for 40% of total production, and by 2030 this figure could rise to 70%. The problem is that such deposits are located in dense rocks – sandstones, shales and carbonates, where oil is highly viscous and difficult to extract.
There are similar difficulties in Southeast Asia, where oil-bearing formations lie at great depths, have a complex structure and low permeability.
An international group of scientists, including specialists from TSU, the Asia-Pacific University of Technology and Innovation, as well as other leading universities, is working on technology that will increase production efficiency. The method is based on the use of hybrid nanoparticles that improve oil fluidity and reduce energy costs.
Particular attention is paid to environmental friendliness: particles of titanium dioxide (TiO₂) and silicon dioxide (SiO₂) are synthesized with minimal harm to nature. In addition, the technology requires less energy compared to traditional methods.
Scientists note that due to the impossibility of experimentally studying all the properties of nanoparticles, it is necessary to rely on theoretical calculations. However, tests in real conditions are planned in the near future.
The development will reduce dependence on traditional fields and increase oil production even from the most difficult deposits. This is especially important in the context of growing demand for energy resources and stricter environmental regulations.
New technology could be a breakthrough for the oil industry, making hard-to-reach reserves more economical and environmentally friendly to develop.
Source: geonews.ru
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