| In order to select the best foam-forming surfactant for reservoir applications, testing procedures are required to screen a large number of products efficiently at petroleum reservoir conditions. The aim of this study was to develop a foam-forming surfactant screening technique that emphasizes the effect of surfactant critical micelle concentration (CMC) on foam performance. Polymer Alcoflood 935, CO2, and four different commercial surfactants were used to formulate the foam. The effect of electrolyte, polymer, surfactant concentration, and oil on foam formation and performance in porous media were evaluated. A cylindrical cell packed with glass beads was used in the porous media tests; porous media tests were conducted at immobile water saturation and/or residual oil saturation, and different CMC conditions.;The experimental results show a strong effect of electrolyte on surfactant activity. Similarly, surfactant concentration expressed as CMC or several times the CMC affects in a significant manner foam performance. |
