In the oil and gas industry, understanding the fundamental concepts of surfactants is key to developing technologies that are not only efficient but also environmentally friendly and economically viable. Surfactants are far more than ordinary chemical compounds—they play a strategic role in various applications, particularly in Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR).
Surfactant is surface active agent—a chemical compound capable of reducing surface tension between two phases: water and oil. A surfactant molecule consists of two main parts:
• A hydrophilic “head” (attracted to the water phase)
• A hydrophobic “tail” (attracted to the oil phase)
This structure allows surfactants to function as interfacial tension reducers between oil and water, microemulsion formers (emulsifiers), and wetting agents.
Why Choosing the Right Surfactant Matters
There is no one-size-fits-all surfactant for every reservoir. Selection must be tailor-made to match the specific conditions of each reservoir. Factors such as salinity, temperature, rock type, and crude oil characteristics significantly influence surfactant performance in enhancing oil recovery. Therefore, choosing and formulating the right surfactant is critical to optimizing production and reducing operational costs.
OGRINDO and Surfactant Research
As a company rooted in petroleum engineering expertise, OGRINDO (Oil and Gas Recovery for Indonesia) has in-depth competence in the research, development, and application of surfactant technology in the energy sector. We are committed to delivering science-based solutions that are lab-proven and field-tested. Our focus lies in creating efficient, environmentally friendly solutions—including the development of locally sourced surfactants that support Indonesia’s energy independence.