Influence of PZC (Point of Zero Charge) on the Static Adsorption of Anionic Surfactants on a Malaysian Sandstone

Static adsorption studies of two anionic surfactants produced in our lab are reported. The adsorption of surfactants on the rock samples was investigated with and without the presence of alkali. The point of zero charge (PZC) values were determined for the sandstone samples employing three titrimetric methods and it was found to be at pH 7.98. The relationship between the adsorption degree and pH value of brine below and above the PZC is discussed. It was found that at the pH of solution exceeds the PZC of the rock, the adsorption was 0.43 and 0.86mg/g of rock for the two surfactants. However, at pH values below PZC, the adsorption as high as 3.66 and 4.49mg/g for the two surfactants. The synthesized surfactants are found to be suitable for the EOR applications at pH values higher than the PZC of the rock sample.