Soroush Ahmadi

This comprehensive review examines chemical and nano-based methods for asphaltene inhibition in the oil industry, focusing on recent developments and challenges. Asphaltene precipitation and deposition remain significant challenges in oil production, affecting wellbore areas, equipment walls, and surface infrastructure. The review analyzes various chemical inhibition mechanisms and evaluation methods, highlighting the emergence of nanotechnology as a promising solution. Metal oxide nanoparticles, organic nanoparticles, and inorganic nonmetal nanoparticles are discussed as effective inhibitors, with particular attention to their performance in different operational conditions, including CO2 flooding processes. The study reveals that nanoparticles’ effectiveness in asphaltene inhibition is attributed to their large specific surface area, strong adsorption capacity, and unique interaction mechanisms with asphaltene molecules. The review also emphasizes the importance of proper inhibitor selection and concentration optimization, as the effectiveness thereof varies with reservoir conditions and crude oil characteristics. Recent developments in functionalized nanoparticles and their applications in enhanced oil recovery are examined, providing insights into future directions for asphaltene management in the petroleum industry.