Formulation of bionanomaterials: A review of particle design towards oil recovery applications.

[Display omitted] • The two-step method is best suited for designing bionanomaterials for oil recovery. • Bionanomaterials crystal phase, size, morphology, hydrophobicity and charge controls EOR mechanisms. • Designed bionanofluid can increase oil recovery and are stable at reservoir condition. • Lack of knowledge sharing between academia and industry has limited field application. To minimize environmental impact and costs, bionanomaterials have been proffered. However, their performance hinges on material and intensification of synthesis methods. Herein, design of bionanomaterials towards oil recovery applications are presented. Methods of synthesizing bionanomaterials were discussed. Process intensification of synthesis methods was elucidated and basic driving force during synthesis were identified. Challenges prevalent during design and application of bionanomaterials have opened new opportunities for research and are incorporated with proposed solutions. In absence of Ostwald ripening, nucleation rate and growth processes can control size and shape of nanocrystal. Hence, designing bionanomaterials, nucleation rate should be determined alongside supersaturation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]