Micro nano bubble technology is a relatively new technique that involves generating bubbles with diameters ranging from micrometers (μ m) to nanometers (nm). These tiny bubbles have a very high surface area to volume ratio, which makes them exhibit unique physical and chemical properties in many applications. In the field of oil extraction, micro nano bubble technology has been researched and developed to improve Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR).

Oil recovery rate refers to the ratio of the total amount of oil that can be extracted from underground reservoirs to the original total amount of oil in the reservoir. Traditional oil extraction methods, such as water flooding and gas flooding, typically only extract about 30% -40% of the oil in the reservoir. The remaining oil is difficult to extract due to factors such as capillary force, viscosity, and surface tension.

Micro nano bubble technology helps improve oil recovery through the following methods:

Reduce oil-water interfacial tension: Micro nano bubbles aggregate at the oil-water interface, which can reduce interfacial tension and help oil droplets detach and flow more easily from the rock surface.

Changing the viscosity of oil: The small disturbance generated by bubbles in the oil phase can reduce the viscosity of the oil, making it easier to flow.

Improving reservoir permeability: The formation and rupture of bubbles can clean up blockages in the reservoir, such as oil sludge and wax, thereby increasing the permeability of the reservoir.

Increasing reservoir pressure: When micro nano bubbles accumulate and rupture in the reservoir, they can generate tiny pressure waves that help drive oil flow towards production wells.

Chemical reaction: The surface of bubbles can adsorb chemical substances, such as surfactants, which can further reduce the interfacial tension between oil and water and improve oil recovery.

Microbial action: In some cases, micro nano bubbles can promote the growth and metabolism of microorganisms, which can produce surfactants or other substances that help improve recovery rates.