Abstract: A solution for injection to a formation containing hydrocarbons includes an ionic liquid and a brine having a salinity of at least 60,000 ppm total dissolved solids (TDS). The ionic liquid is configured to lower an interfacial tension between the solution and the hydrocarbons in the formation.

Abstract: The subject invention provides microbe-based products, as well as their use to improve oil production and refining efficiency by, for example, remediating the disposable layers in oil tanks and other oil storage units. In preferred embodiments, the microbe-based products comprise biochemical-producing yeast and growth by-products thereof, such as, e.g., biosurfactants. The subject invention can be used to remediate rag layer and/or other dissolved solid layers that form in water-oil emulsions. Furthermore, the subject invention can be used for remediating solid impurities, such as sand, scale, rust and clay, in produced water, flow-back, brine, and/or fracking fluids.

Abstract: A composition of a microemulsion including a mixture of a combination of surfactants and co-surfactants, an oil phase and an aqueous phase is described. In addition, a method for the advanced recovery of heavy oils is described which includes the steps of injecting a bank containing a microemulsion composition, injecting a bank of a polymer solution, and injecting water. The microemulsion composition can be applied in arenitic and carbonatic reservoirs, containing oils with API below 22.3° API, in both onshore and offshore fields.