Effectiveness of electrokinetic-enhanced oil recovery (EK-EOR): a systematic review

Abstract Hydrocarbons continue to play an important role in providing affordable energy meet rising demand. Amidst growing concerns on the environmental impact of oil and gas production processes, many researchers are increasingly exploring environmentally sustainable methods extracting hydrocarbons from reservoir. The introduction direct current into pore space activates mechanisms that enhance fluid flow, reduces produced water, decreases associated hydrogen sulfide production, leaves no material footprint environment. Previous laboratory studies field applications have reported varying degrees success EK-EOR mechanism. However, mechanism effectiveness this technique remain unclear. This systematic literature review provides opportunity critically evaluate results, establish a basis for identify possible future research directions. In study, 52 articles were identified reviewed selection process adhered PRISMA protocol. Data extracted these fed model, Monte Carlo simulation (10,000 iterations) was used determine rate process. Insights obtained indicate alone is not effective (with 45%). published experiments interstitial clay affects electro-osmotic permeability reservoir rocks which determines Salt deposition cathode generation gases (oxygen chlorine at anode) significant limitations EK-EOR. concludes by identifying areas application