Effect of Rock type and Brine Composition on Adsorption of Two Foam-Forming Surfactants

Abstract

SUMMARY Adsorption levels of two surfactants (anionic and amphoteric) suitable for foam flooding in high-salinity and high-hardness conditions were measured on sandstone and limestone with different brines. The anionic surfactant adsorbed more strongly on limestone than on sandstone, while the opposite behavior was observed with the amphoteric surfactant. The presence of divalent ions increased adsorption levels of both surfactants on both rocks. Adsorption mechanisms are suggested from measured surface charge properties of the rocks.