Nanoparticle-Stabilized CO₂ Foam in Porous Media for EOR and CCUS: A State-of-the-Art Review involving Mechanisms, Challenges, Influencing Parameters, and Research Opportunities

Several trials have used nanoparticles (NPs) to stabilize foam, improve carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), and enhanced oil recovery (EOR). Nonetheless, previous research has been unable to differentiate between hydrophilic and hydrophobic/modified NPs to determine their role in foam stabilization. This study explores the regulatory factors and mechanisms of NP-stabilized CO₂ foams and describes techniques for evaluating foam stability. The difficulties encountered, potential directions for future research, and limitations on applicability were all covered while describing how NPs stabilize foam. The efficacy of NP-stabilized foam is contingent upon the types of NPs, modifiers, temperature, salinity, and characteristics of the NPs. Both hydrophilic and hydrophobic NPs stabilize foam networks and enhance detachment energy. The synergistic effects of NPs on surfactants and lamellae are variable. NP foam can emulsify crude oil, enhance reservoir sweep efficiency, and infiltrate low-permeability pores by redirecting fluid. Optimization is necessary to identify the ideal modifier and production technique for modified NPs. Cost-effective, environmentally sustainable NPs may stabilize foam; nevertheless, further work is required to ascertain the control parameters of NP-stabilized foam.