This review analyses the fundamental thermodynamic theory of the crude oil-brine-rock (COBR) interface and the underlying rock-brine and oil-brine interactions. The available data are then reviewed to outline potential mechanisms responsible for increased oil recovery from low salinity waterflooding (LSWF). We propose an approach to studying LSWF and identify the key missing links that are needed to explain observations at multiple length scales. The synergistic effect of LSWF on other chemical enhanced oil recovery methods such as surfactant, alkaline, nanoparticle and polymer flooding are also outlined. We specifically highlight key uncertainties that must be overcome to fully implement the technique in the field.

这篇综述分析了原油-盐水-岩石（COBR）界面的基本热力学理论以及潜在的岩石-盐水和油-盐水相互作用。然后审查可用数据，以概述可能导致低盐度注水（LSWF）提高采收率的潜在机理。我们提出了一种研究LSWF的方法，并确定了解释多种长度尺度的观测所需要的关键缺失环节。还概述了LSWF对其他化学强化采油方法（如表面活性剂，碱性，纳米颗粒和聚合物驱油）的协同作用。我们特别强调了关键的不确定性，要在现场完全实施该技术必须克服这些不确定性。