Oil–wall interaction induced droplet deformation dynamics in a capillary tube.

This article focuses on the simulation and analysis of oil droplet deformation dynamics in high water-cut oilfields by incorporating oil–wall interaction forces based on the extended Derjaguin–Landau–Verwey–Overbeek (EDLVO) theory. The study establishes a comprehensive model of oil–wall interaction forces—including van der Waals, electrostatic double-layer, hydrophobic, steric, bridging, and hydration forces—and applies it to investigate the deformation behavior of high-viscosity (plug and slug) and low-viscosity droplets migrating through a capillary tube. Results indicate that EDLVO forces significantly hinder deformation and reduce velocity in slug droplets, cause localized shape changes without affecting plug droplet velocity, and increase tail concavity and delay reconnection in low-viscosity droplets. These findings enhance understanding of droplet dynamics within reservoir pores and have implications for optimizing enhanced oil recovery techniques.