Surface Dilational Rheology, Foam, and Core Flow Properties of Alpha Olefin Sulfonate

Abstract

AbstractThe surface tension, surface dilational rheology, foaming and displacement flow properties of alpha olefin sulfonate (AOS) with inorganic salts were studied. The foam composite index (FCI), which reflects foaming capacity and foam stability, is used to evaluate foam properties. It is found that sodium and calcium salts can lead to decreases in AOS surface tension, critical micelle concentration, and molecular area at the gas–liquid interface. Sodium ions reduce the surface dilational viscoelasticity (E) and FCI of AOS, while calcium ions can enhance the E of AOS and make the FCI of AOS reach a maximum. In the solution containing calcium and sodium ions, the FCI of AOS is improved. Crude oil reduces the FCI of AOS. Injection pressure and displacing efficiency of AOS alternating carbon dioxide (CO2) injection are higher than injections of water alternating with CO2 or CO2 alone in low permeability cores.