Article

Synergistic reinforcement of HPAM/Cr(III) acetate polymer gels using Fe₃O₄@Saponin/Ni nanocomposites for conformance control applications

Heyder MhohamdiDepartment of Computers Techniques Engineering, College of Technical Engineering, The Islamic University, Najaf, IraqRaman KumarFaculty of Engineering, Sohar University, PO Box 44, 311, Sohar, OmanAshutosh PattanaikAshutosh Pattanaik, Department of Mechanical Engineering, School of Engineering and Technology, JAIN (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, Karnataka, IndiaHrushikesh SarangiDepartment of Mechanical Engineering, Siksha 'O' Anusandhan (Deemed to be University), Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751030, IndiaDeepak GuptaCentre for Promotion of Research, Graphic Era Deemed to be University, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, 248002, IndiaV Naga Bhushana RaoDepartment of Mechanical Engineering, Raghu Engineering College, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, 531162, IndiaMuyassar NorberdiyevaDepartment of Chemistry and Its Teaching Methods, Tashkent State Pedagogical University, Tashkent, UzbekistanVikasdeep Singh MannDepartment of Mechanical Engineering, School of Engineering and Technology, CGC University, Mohali, Punjab, 140307, IndiaUsama S. AltimariDepartment of Medical Laboratories Technology, AL-Nisour University College, Baghdad, IraqAseel SmeratHourani Center for Applied Scientific Research, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman 19328, JordanAhmad AbumalekFaculty of Engineering, Balkh University, Balkh, Afghanistan. [email protected]

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Abstract

The persistent challenge of gel instability and inadequate performance under harsh reservoir conditions limits the efficiency of polymer-based systems in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) and water shutoff operations. This study addresses these limitations by introducing Fe₃O₄@Saponin/Ni nanocomposites as synergistic reinforcing agents within a standard HPAM/Cr(III) acetate gel system. Distinct from earlier nanocomposite additives, the specific incorporation of Nickel ions into the saponin-functionalized magnetite lattice provides a novel advantage: the formation of thermally durable Ni-O-Fe bonds and additional coordination sites that significantly enhance the gel's resistance to thermal degradation and syneresis. Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles were synthesized and sequentially functionalized to ensure optimal dispersion and secondary crosslinking efficiency. Comprehensive characterization was performed using FT-IR, TGA, SEM, and DLS, followed by evaluation of gelation kinetics, dispersion stability, rheology, syneresis resistance, and core flooding performance under reservoir-mimicking conditions. Results revealed that the unique Ni-doped structure improved thermal stability, ensured uniform nanoparticle size (20-50 nm), and promoted stable dispersion up to 500 ppm. The addition of these nanocomposites accelerated gelation rates at optimal concentrations (≤ 250 ppm), enhanced storage modulus, and dramatically reduced syneresis, exhibiting only 12% weight loss after two months at 110 °C and 3000 psi. Core flooding tests confirmed the superior plugging efficiency, higher resistance factors, and long-term durability of the nanocomposite-reinforced gels compared to conventional formulations. These findings demonstrate that Fe₃O₄@Saponin/Ni nanocomposites provide a robust, multifunctional platform for advanced EOR, offering sustained mechanical and thermal resilience in demanding environments.

Topics

Enhanced Oil Recovery Techniques Petroleum Processing and Analysis Grouting, Rheology, and Soil Mechanics

Identifiers

DOI: 10.1186/s11671-026-04442-8

Citations and references

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