Bio-based carbon quantum dots: applications in the petroleum industry

This study examines the effectiveness of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) in inter-well tracing processes. Experimental simulations involved the injection of polymers and CQDs into sandstone-based porous media following dimensional analysis. Petrophysical properties, such as porosity and permeability, were measured during drainage and chemical injection tests. The goal was to identify the key parameters influencing miscible displacement and to determine the optimal concentrations of the injected materials to reduce interfacial tension, increase the viscosity of the sweep water, and control wettability. The study also explored the synthesis and characterization of CQDs, their use as inter-well tracers, and the tracking of nanofluids injected into the reservoir. CMG modeling was used to simulate the behavior and impact of CQDs in the reservoir. The results showed that the combination of CQDs and polymers significantly improves the tracking of injected fluids.