Role of active particles and solid-fluid interactions in interfacial fluid mechanics: a microfluidic approach

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Canada has the third largest reserves of oil in the world, mostly in heavy oil and oil sand reservoirs. The existing extraction processes are energy intensive and emit large amounts of CO2 that must be dramatically reduced. To protect our environment while continuing to provide energy for our economic security, we need to create and test new technologies. Laboratory experiments on actual reservoir samples are expensive and time consuming. This proposal is driven by the need for research to develop transparent reservoir-like devices that behave like actual rocks and soils. These can be used for rapid prototyping of energy sector solutions. In the lab, these devices are used to conduct experiments to assess combinations of solvents and steam with long chain molecules known as surfactants (similar to detergents), microparticles and nanoparticles to detach heavy oil from rock surfaces. The aim is to find combinations that are able to extract oil using less energy and hence lead to less CO2 emissions.******This research program takes advantage of naturally existing active materials in oil reservoirs and the knowledge of interfacial fluid mechanics to reduce the use of chemicals for oil recovery, lower CO2 emissions, and increase the economic viability for recovery of Canada's vast oil and gas reserves. For the multiple fluid and fluid-solid systems present in the reservoir, the interfacial fluid mechanics is dependent on specific physical, chemical and electrical conditions. Fluid-fluid and fluid-solid interfaces such as water-air or water-glass abound in nature and everyday life. Understanding of interfacial fluid mechanics facilitates the advancement of many technologies besides oil and gas including emulsion and microemulsion formation, drug delivery, high-speed printing, 3D bio-printing, painting and coating. Within this program, we will perform experiments for the discovery of new phenomena and develop scaling laws for interfacial fluid mechanics in porous media. The highly integrated methodology is necessary to discover the physical mechanisms that control interfacial flows. The knowledge gained will be valuable in a wide range of fields. ***The program will train a diverse and multicultural group of highly qualified personnel who can bring their skills to fill skill gaps for industry and to train academics who can drive unique solutions to important challenges for industry and society. **