One of the critical applications of nanotechnology in the oil industry is in enhanced oil recovery (EOR). Nanoparticles can be used to improve the efficiency of oil extraction from reservoirs. For instance, nanoscale materials such as silica nanoparticles can be injected into oil reservoirs to alter the wettability of the rock surface, thus enhancing oil recovery. These nanoparticles can also help in reducing the interfacial tension between oil and water, making it easier to extract the oil.
