Synthesizing an Innovative Nanocomposite to Improve Polymer Gel Performance

ABSTRACT In situ gel systems play a critical role in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) and water shutoff operations by improving fluid control in reservoirs and mitigating unwanted water production during extraction. However, challenges such as poor thermal stability and syneresis limit the performance of conventional gels. To overcome these issues, this study synthesizes and introduces an innovative TiO 2 @saponin/Zr(IV) nanocomposite to enhance gelation efficiency in polymer‐based gels. The nanocomposite was synthesized and characterized using FT‐IR spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), confirming its structural integrity, thermal stability, and nanoscale uniformity (particle size: 22–49 nm). Experimental results demonstrate significant improvements in gel performance due to the nanocomposite's incorporation. Syneresis tests showed that nanocomposite gels maintained structural integrity with only 8% water expulsion after 2 months under 105°C and 2000 psi, compared to 90% syneresis in nano‐free gels. Core flooding experiments highlighted the nanocomposite's impact on fluid control, achieving a residual resistance factor (RRF) of over 4000, far surpassing the RRF of < 50 for nano‐free gels. These findings underscore the efficacy of TiO 2 @saponin/Zr(IV) nanocomposites in enhancing polymer gels' mechanical and structural properties.

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