A molecular dynamics simulation study on the salt tolerance of saturated cardanol surfactants in a crude oil-water system

Key Points

• Salt tolerance enhances the stability of saturated cardanol surfactants in crude oil-water systems, improving performance.
• The simulation revealed key behaviors of surfactants under varying salt concentrations, specifically at 300 mM sodium chloride.
• Molecular dynamics simulations were employed to assess interactions within the crude oil-water system at different salt levels.
• Findings may support the development of more effective surfactants for oil recovery, highlighting their practical importance.