Abstract
Abstract The use of natural polymers for Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) offers an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic polymers. This study introduces a novel approach by utilizing Beta vulgaris polymer and exploring its modification with Welan gum to enhance rheological performance. The polymers were characterized through SEM, FTIR, XRD, and TGA to assess their structural, thermal, and morphological properties. The study evaluates the effects of concentration, temperature, and salinity on rheological behavior along with core flooding. Beta vulgaris exhibited varying particle sizes with moderate viscosity (10 cP), which decreased by 80% at 55 °C in saline conditions, indicating poor thermal stability. Welan gum, with its rod-like structure, demonstrated superior thermal resistance. The composite blend of Beta vulgaris and Welan gum significantly improved viscosity (30 cP) and flow stability. All polymers followed the Ostwald–de Waele power law, with the composite blend enhancing the flow behavior index and stability by 75% and 10%, respectively. Core flooding experiments confirmed a 60% increase in oil fractional flow with natural polymers and 26% incremental oil recovery with a composite material injection. This study demonstrates the potential of combining Beta vulgaris and Welan gum as a sustainable, efficient solution for EOR, particularly in challenging reservoir conditions. Graphical abstract