Evaluating the Suitability of Soybeans and Wheat Husk for Interfacial Tension Reduction in Crude Oil and Brine Systems

The global surge in energy demand, fueled by industrialization and economic expansion, especially in developing nations—necessitates more efficient oil recovery techniques. Conventional recovery methods are increasingly ineffective due to declining reservoir performance, and while chemical Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) methods show promise, their widespread application is hindered by high costs. This study explores a sustainable alternative by investigating the extraction and application of nanocellulose and nanosilica derived from soybean residues and wheat husks, respectively, for interfacial tension (IFT) reduction in crude oil–brine systems. Nanocellulose was extracted from soybean residues via Soxhlet extraction followed by sequential treatments with NaOH, HCl, and H₂O₂. Nanosilica was obtained from wheat husks through combustion and chemical leaching. Characterization involved equipment such as Du Noüy tensiometer, viscometer, and pycnometer. Density values for nanosilica samples (0.02–0.17 g concentrations) ranged from 0.8348 to 0.8400 g/cm3, while kinematic and dynamic viscosities ranged from 1.69–1.98 cSt and 1.41–1.65 cP, respectively. IFT tests conducted at surfactant concentrations of 0.1–0.7% in brine solutions of 0.5% and 1% NaCl showed significant reduction. For 1% NaCl, IFT decreased from 39.8 to 15.9 dynes/cm; for 0.5% NaCl, from 35.7 to 11.7 dynes/cm. Results indicate that both nanocellulose and nanosilica exhibit favorable physicochemical properties for EOR applications. This approach offers a cost-effective, eco-friendly pathway for improving oil recovery, while simultaneously valorizing agricultural waste.