Dispersion stability and interfacial properties of modified MoS2 nanosheets for enhanced oil recovery

As an emerging technology for enhanced oil recovery that is highly efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly, nanofluids have gained increasing attention. However, improving the dispersion stability of nanofluids to enhance oil displacement efficiency remains an open challenge. In this study, a variety of modified MoS 2 nanosheets were synthesized and their stability in brine and basic properties relevant to oil displacement were systematically investigated. The results demonstrated that both modification methods were effective to some extent. However, compared with physically adsorbed, chemically modified MoS 2 nanosheets by sulfur vacancies exhibited superior performance. It was reflected in their good stability in brine, low interfacial tension, and effective emulsifying ability. These advantageous properties enabled them to enhance oil recovery in a significant manner. This work revealed the basic properties of modified MoS 2 nanosheets , especially the dispersibility in brine. It was expected to design suitable chemical oil displacement agents for different reservoir conditions and provide guidance for practical application.