Ethoxylated Oleyl Sulfonates as Model Compounds for Enhanced Oil Recovery

Abstract
Precisely ethoxylated oleyl sulfonates were prepared and studied as model surfactant candidates for EOR. They were found to yield low interfacial tensions (IFT's), to give high solubilization parameters, and to have high electrolyte tolerance. Unfortunately, as a class of compounds they have a tendency to form liquid crystals (rather than microemulsions), which must be overcome by adding cosolvents, elevating temperatures, or restricting the maximally ethoxylated species.