Colloid and interface science in the oil industry

Colloid and interface science has profoundly affected technology development in the oil industry in recent years. Major advances have occurred in the understanding of complex fluids (for example micellar and polymer solutions and microemulsions used during enhanced oil recovery), in the development of colloidal dispersions used for fuels and lubrication oil, in emulsification/demulsification technology, and in the understanding of interfacial processes that are present during environmental remediation. It is clear that this scientific discipline has enormously benefited from stimulation by industrial needs.