6 January 2024 | Dilshad Shaikhah, Valeria Loise, Ruggero Angelico, Michele Porto, Pietro Calandra, Abraham A. Abe, Flaviano Testa, Concetta Bartucca, Cesare Oliviero Rossi, Paolino Caputo
This review article explores the potential of biosurfactants in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) processes, highlighting their renewable and environmentally friendly nature compared to traditional petroleum-derived surfactants. The authors discuss the production strategies, characterization techniques, and application methods of biosurfactants in EOR. They emphasize the advantages of biosurfactants, such as biodegradability, low environmental impact, and compatibility with reservoir conditions. The article also delves into the mechanisms by which biosurfactants reduce interfacial tension, alter wettability, and mobilize trapped oil through emulsification. Additionally, it addresses the challenges and future prospects of using biosurfactants in EOR, including cost-effectiveness, scale-up production, and regulatory compliance. The review concludes by emphasizing the need for further research and development to fully realize the potential of biosurfactants in sustainable EOR practices.This review article explores the potential of biosurfactants in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) processes, highlighting their renewable and environmentally friendly nature compared to traditional petroleum-derived surfactants. The authors discuss the production strategies, characterization techniques, and application methods of biosurfactants in EOR. They emphasize the advantages of biosurfactants, such as biodegradability, low environmental impact, and compatibility with reservoir conditions. The article also delves into the mechanisms by which biosurfactants reduce interfacial tension, alter wettability, and mobilize trapped oil through emulsification. Additionally, it addresses the challenges and future prospects of using biosurfactants in EOR, including cost-effectiveness, scale-up production, and regulatory compliance. The review concludes by emphasizing the need for further research and development to fully realize the potential of biosurfactants in sustainable EOR practices.