Comparative Analysis of a Bio Surfactant with Synthetic Surfactant for Reservoir Rock Wettability Alteration

This study explores how different synthetic and biologically derived surfactants influence the wettability of reservoir rocks. Wettability changes were assessed using the contact angle technique, which allowed the effect of varying surfactant types and concentrations on droplet behavior to be clearly observed. Alkaline solutions, commonly used in enhanced oil recovery (EOR), were included due to their ability to interact with the natural organic acids present in crude oil and generate surface-active compounds directly at the oil–water interface. This reaction reduces interfacial tension and promotes improved oil displacement. Despite their effectiveness, the increasing cost of traditional alkaline chemicals and synthetic surfactants, along with concerns regarding environmental impact and poor biodegradability, has prompted the search for more sustainable alternatives. Bio-surfactants, particularly saponin-based compounds that naturally produce foam in water, offer a promising, environmentally friendly, and potentially more economical option for EOR processes. This work provides a comparative evaluation of these surfactants, highlighting their capability to alter wettability and supporting the development of greener chemical flooding methods.