Dynamic Interactions of Water Ions at Carbonate/Brine Interfaces: Electrokinetic Studies II

Summary “Most of the previous laboratory studies used only the conventional experimental methods such as coreflooding tests, spontaneous imbibition, contact angles, and NMR with very limited work on zeta potential. The short-term interactions between the rock surfaces and SmartWater ions can directly impact surface roughness and ions structures at the interfaces. As such, these dynamic interactions will eventually affect the electokinetic behavior of carbonates, rock wettability and oil recovery accordingly. Therefore, this study can provide new insights in understanding the instantaneous reaction mechanisms between different ions and carbonate minerals. The physio-chemical interactions between dissolved ions in brines and carbonate minerals are closely monitored for extended time periods through zeta potential measurements. Electrokinetics and zeta potential at different rock-water-oil interfaces can be directly related to the wettability changes. Any adjustment in salinity and ionic content commonly impacts the chemistry of the thin film at interfaces. As a result, changing the ionic strength of any charged surface ultimately influences the electric double layer (EDL) characteristics and rock wettability.”