Research Progress of Zwitterionic Surfactants in the Field of Enhanced Oil Recovery in Low-Permeability Reservoirs
Owing to its unique molecular structure,zwitterionic surfactants not only have the capabilities of traditional surfactants in terms of reducing interfacial tension and altering wettability,but also can adjust their own charged states in accordance with the reservoir environment,thereby exhibiting stronger reservoir adaptability.In this article,the structure and classification of zwitterionic surfactants were firstly introduced,and then their performance characteristics including reducing oil-water interfacial tension,improving rock wettability,emulsifying,and environmental responsiveness were analyzed.Finally,the research and application development of zwitterionic surfactants in low-permeability reservoir were reviewed.The study reveals that,owing to their unique molecular structures and excellent environmental adaptability,zwitterionic surfactants have played a significant role in enhancing oil recovery in low-permeability reservoirs and possess broad application potential in the future development of complex reservoirs.