Title: Experimental Investigation of Coconut Oil as a Surfactant for Chemical Enhanced Oil Recovery
Authors: Anthony Ogbaegbe Chikwe, Christian Emelu Okalla, Young-Dede Steven Boloinyofa, and Ndubuisi Uchechukwu Okereke
Volume: 10
Issue: 1
Pages: 89-100
Publication Date: 2026/01/28
Abstract:
This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the efficacy of coconut oil as a natural surfactant in Chemical Enhanced Oil Recovery (CEOR) processes. This study evaluates the effectiveness of coconut oil as a surfactant in Chemical Enhanced Oil Recovery (CEOR). The results indicate that coconut oil is a highly effective and sustainable alternative to synthetic surfactants, with an average oil recovery improvement of up to 20% compared to a water-only injection scheme. The study compares the performance of coconut oil to conventional synthetic surfactants and highlights its potential as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative in CEOR operations. The results demonstrate that coconut oil effectively reduces Interfacial Tension (IFT) between oil and water, with an average IFT reduction of up to 50% across a range of salinities and temperatures. The experimentally determined IFT values were used to model the displacement process in a micro fluidic system, providing insights into the oil recovery mechanisms associated with coconut oil injection. Additionally, the study investigated the influence of different concentrations of coconut oil on the stability and adsorption of the surfactant in various reservoir conditions, revealing its compatibility and applicability in a wide range of CEOR applications.