Ecofriendly natural surfactants in the oil and gas industry: A comprehensive review

• Main Authors: Abdurrahman, Muslim, Kamal, Muhammad Shahzad, Romal Ramadhan, Romal Ramadhan, Arik Daniati, Arik Daniati, Arsad, Agus, Abdul Rahman, Anis Farhana, Novia Rita, Novia Rita
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: American Chemical Society 2023
• Subjects: TP Chemical technology
• Online Access: http://eprints.utm.my/104867/1/AgusArsad2023_EcofriendlyNaturalSurfactantsintheOilandGas.pdf; http://eprints.utm.my/104867/; http://dx.doi.org/10.1021/acsomega.3c04450

The use of different types of chemicals in upstream oilfield operations is critical for optimizing the different operations involved in hydrocarbon exploration and production. Surfactants are a type chemical that are applied in various upstream operations, such as drilling, fracturing, and enhanced oil recovery. However, due to their nonbiodegradability and toxicity, the use of synthetic surfactants has raised environmental concerns. Natural surfactants have emerged because of the hunt for sustainable and environmentally suitable substitutes. This Review discusses the role of natural surfactants in upstream operations as well as their benefits and drawbacks. The Review discusses the basic characteristics of surfactants, their classification, and the variables that affect their performance. Finally, the Review examines the possible applications of natural surfactants in the upstream oil sector and identifies areas that require further research.