Variation of palm oil MES surfactant concentrations using CMG software

Abstract This study utilizes computer simulations to explore the potential use of Methyl Ester Sulfonate (MES) surfactants derived from palm oil to enhance oil recovery stability. The main function of MES in reducing interfacial tension (IFT) and boosting recovery factor (RF) includes several key actions. MES molecules align at the oil-water interface, reducing interfacial energy and IFT. It also forms micelles that encapsulate oil, further lowering IFT. By disrupting water’s cohesive forces, MES helps disperse oil droplets, improving fluid dynamics and stabilizing emulsions. These effects enhance oil recovery, making MES effective in enhanced oil recovery applications. Using simulation software, this approach offers a simpler and more flexible way to evaluate different concentration levels, as it can be performed anytime and anywhere without incurring extra expenses typically associated with laboratory setups. It enables researchers to quickly identify the optimal concentration that yields the best recovery factor. Various concentration levels were tested to determine the optimal concentration that yields the best recovery factor. The tested concentrations ranged from 0.50% to 2.03%, with a specific gravity of 41 API for all variations and salinity brine at 8900 ppm. At a concentration of 0.50%, the lowest recovery factor (RF) obtained is 35.62%, while the highest RF is achieved at a concentration of 2.00%, with a value of 55.35%.