Nanotechnology Applications for Viscosity Reduction of Heavy and Extra-Heavy Oils: A Review

Abstract

This work highlights the development and application of nanotechnology-based treatments in the viscosity reduction of heavy (HO) and extra-heavy (EHO) crude oils to improve mobility and transport. Recent studies have shown the notable performance (typically >80%) of nanoparticles/nanofluids as viscosity reducers for cold processes. This chapter briefly describes the particularities of HO and EHO physicochemical properties and their relationship to their rheological complexity to better understand the commonly observed limitations during their production/recovery and transport. Subsequently, we explain the crude oil–nanoparticle interaction and how the concentration, textural properties, and chemical nature of nanoparticles affect viscosity reduction performance. We then describe the most important and novel applications for nanoparticle-assisted viscosity reduction, including ultrasound cavitation, deasphalting, IOR stimulation, and reduction of diluent consumption for transport. Finally, three field trials were presented to analyze the technical-economic results of nanoparticle/nanofluid applications.