Nanotechnology
Fatma Ehssan; Tabarak Haider; Thamer A. Abdullah; Mustafa M Hathal; Viola Somogyi; Khalida F. Al-Azawi
Abstract
Several disciplines recognize nanotechnology's revolutionary potential, including nanoelectronics, nanobiomedicine, and nanodevices. Surprisingly, the oil and gas industry's upstream exploration and production sector has shown limited enthusiasm. Increased oil recovery and the use of unconventional resources ...
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Several disciplines recognize nanotechnology's revolutionary potential, including nanoelectronics, nanobiomedicine, and nanodevices. Surprisingly, the oil and gas industry's upstream exploration and production sector has shown limited enthusiasm. Increased oil recovery and the use of unconventional resources are vital for success, but recessions, particularly during low crude oil prices in the 19th century, pose additional challenges. In response, significant attention has turned to applying nanotechnology to overcome these industrial barriers. Recently, government agencies and the global oil sector have boosted investments in exploration, drilling, production, treatment, and wastewater management. Notably, nanosensors provide precise reservoir monitoring, while nanofluids with advanced nanoparticles significantly enhance oil production. Moreover, nanocatalysts have improved the efficiency of petrochemical and oil refining operations. Research found that using CNTs and Iron Oxide at specific weight ratios yields the highest Oil Recovery Factors of 31% and 28%, respectively. Additionally, nanomembranes facilitate the efficient separation of oil, water, and air, aiding in the purification of oil and air while removing contaminants from wastewater. Functional nanomaterials are also driving a shift in device design and manufacturing, ensuring more innovative, reliable, and durable products. This article examines the latest advancements in nanotechnology and potential nanomaterial applications in the petroleum sector. Collaborative research and infrastructure investments are paving the way for transformation. As technology progresses, it holds the potential to make processes more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally sustainable.
Materials Science
Shanaz H. Ahmed; Awham M. Hameed; Khalida F. Al-Azawi
Abstract
The brittleness and porosity of cement mortar leads to low compressive, flexural, and tensile strengths and poor hardness, making it susceptible to environmental degradation. This study aimed to improve the mechanical and physical properties of cement mortar using a simple and cost-effective approach ...
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The brittleness and porosity of cement mortar leads to low compressive, flexural, and tensile strengths and poor hardness, making it susceptible to environmental degradation. This study aimed to improve the mechanical and physical properties of cement mortar using a simple and cost-effective approach of impregnating pre-cured hardened mortar with polymers. Three polymers - polyethylene glycol (PEG), polyacrylamide (PAM), and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) - were used for impregnation. The polymers were blended with a magnetic stirrer and the impregnation was performed via three methods: vacuum, ultrasound, and 24-hour immersion. The results showed significant improvements in mechanical and physical properties. PEG-impregnated samples exhibited the highest compressive strength (24.47 MPa), flexural strength (1.38 MPa), and splitting tensile strength (2.08 MPa) compared to reference samples with 17 MPa, 0.52 MPa, and 1.35 MPa respectively. PAM-impregnated cement mortar displayed the highest hardness value of 81 versus 70.08 for the reference sample. Optimal results were achieved via the vacuum method, with increases in bulk density. The polymer impregnation filled pores and improved bonding, enhancing the mechanical properties of the brittle cement mortar.
