Surfactant compositions comprising carboxylates and methods of making thereof

Abstract

Described herein are surfactant blends and solubilizers including carboxylic acid surfactants and methods of preparing the same. Also, described are surfactants derived from cashew nutshell liquid, as well as composition including the same and methods of using thereof in oil and gas operations.

Description

[0001] SURFACTANT COMPOSITIONS COMPRISING CARBOXYLATES AND METHODS OF MAKING THEREOF

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0003] This application claims priority to, and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 63 / 639,369, filed on April 26, 2024 and Indian Patent Application No. 2024 / 11033319, the contents of which are hereby incorporated in their entirety.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) refers to techniques for increasing the amount of unrefined petroleum, or crude oil that may be extracted from an oil reservoir (e.g., an oil field). Using EOR, 40-60% of the reservoir's original oil can typically be extracted compared with only 20-40% using primary and secondary recovery (e.g., by water injection or natural gas injection). Enhanced oil recovery may also be referred to as improved oil recovery or tertiary oil recovery (as opposed to primary and secondary oil recovery).

[0006] Enhanced oil recovery may be achieved by a variety of methods including miscible gas injection (which includes carbon dioxide flooding), chemical injection (which includes polymer flooding, alkaline flooding, and surfactant flooding), microbial injection, or thermal recovery (which includes cyclic steam, steam flooding, and fire flooding). The injection of various chemicals, usually as dilute aqueous solutions, has been used to improve oil recovery. Injection of alkaline or caustic solutions into reservoirs with oil that has organic acids naturally occurring in the oil (also referred to herein as "unrefined petroleum acids") will result in the production of soap that may lower the interfacial tension enough to increase production. Injection of a dilute solution of a water soluble polymer to increase the viscosity of the injected water can increase the amount of oil recovered from geological formations. Aqueous solutions of surfactants such as petroleum sulfonates may be injected to lower the interfacial tension or capillary pressure that impedes oil droplets from moving through a reservoir. Special formulations of oil, water and surfactant microemulsions have also proven useful. Such formulations often include co-solvent compounds to increase the solubility of the solutes in the presence of oil and decrease the viscosity of an emulsion.

[0007] There is a need in the art for cost effective methods for enhanced oil recovery using chemical injection. Provided herein are methods and compositions addressing these and other needs in the art. SUMMARY

[0008] Provided herein are compounds, compositions, and methods for enhanced oil recovery. The compositions described herein can also be used as an emulsion breakers.

[0009] The compounds can include derivatives of components of cashew nutshell liquid (CNSL), including derivatives of anacardiac acid, derivatives of cardanol, derivatives of cardol, and derivatives of 2-methylcardol. The compositions can include anacardiac acid, derivatives of cardanol, derivatives of cardol, and derivatives of 2-methylcardol.

[0010] For example, provided herein are compounds defined by Formula T

[0011] Formula I wherein BO represents, individually for each occurrence, -CH2-CH(ethyl)-O- or - CH3CH(O-)CH3; PO represents, individually for each occurrence, -CH2-CH(methyl)-O-; EO represents, individually for each occurrence, -CH2-CH2-O-; R1represents a C15 alkyl group or a C 15 alkenyl group; R2represents hydrogen or methyl; Q is hydrogen, -SOiM+, - SO3H, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3M+, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3H, -CH2C(O)O’M+, or - CH2C(O)OH; M+, when present, is a cation; x is an integer from 0 to 15; y is an integer from

[0012] 0 to 50; and z is an integer from 1 to 100.

[0013] For example, provided herein are compounds defined by Formula II

[0014] Formula II wherein BO represents -CH2-CH(ethyl)-O- or -CH3CH(O-)CH3; PO represents -CH2- CH(methyl)-O-; EO represents -CH2-CH2-O-; R1represents a C15 alkyl group or a C15 alkenyl group; Q is hydrogen, -SO3M+, -SO3H, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3M+, CH2CH(OH)CH2- SO3H, -CH2C(O)O"M+, or -CH2C(O)OH; M+, when present, is a cation; x is an integer from

[0015] 0 to 15; y is an integer from 0 to 50; and z is an integer from 1 to 100.

[0016] For example, provided herein are compounds defined by Formula III Formula III or a salt thereof, wherein BO represents -CH2-CH(ethyl)-O- or -CH3CH(O-)CH3; PO represents -CH2-CH(methyl)-O-; EO represents -CH2-CH2-O-; R1represents a C15 alkyl group or a C15 alkenyl group; R3represents hydrogen, an alkyl group, an alkoxy group, an aryl group, or an alkyleneoxy group; Q is hydrogen, -SCENE. -SO3H, CH2CH(OH)CH2- SO3M+, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3H, -CH2C(O)O’M+, or -CH2C(O)OH; M+, when present, is a cation; x is an integer from 0 to 15; y is an integer from 0 to 50; and z is an integer from 1 to 100.

[0017] Also described herein are aqueous compositions including a compound described herein and water. Additional components, including polymers (e.g., viscosity-enhancing water-soluble polymers), alkali agents, additional surfactants, co-solvents, and combinations thereof, can be present in the aqueous compositions.

[0018] Also provided herein are methods of making surfactant compositions. These methods can comprise alkoxylating cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) or a component thereof.

[0019] Also provided herein are polymers derived from condensation of an alcohol and an aldehyde, wherein the alcohol comprises a compound defined by Formula IV

[0020] Formula IV wherein BO represents -CH2-CH(ethyl)-O- or -CH3CH(O-)CH3; PO represents -CH2- CH(methyl)-O-; EO represents -CH2-CH2-O-; R1represents a C15 alkyl group or a C 15 alkenyl group; Q is hydrogen; x is an integer from 0 to 15; y is an integer from 0 to 50; and z is an integer from 0 to 100.

[0021] In another aspect, provided herein are surfactant blends including a carboxylic acid surfactant and one or more additional components, wherein the one or more additional components can include a co- surfactant, a co-solvent, or a combination thereof

[0022] In yet another aspect, provided is a solubilizer including any of the disclosed surfactant blends.

[0023] Also, provided herein are methods of preparing a surfactant blend comprising a carboxylic acid surfactant, the method comprising: combining a lipid precursor and one or more additional components to form a precursor blend, wherein the one or more additional components comprise a co-surfactant, a co-solvent, or a combination thereof; and hydrolyzing the lipid precursor to form the carboxylate surfactant. Also described herein are methods of displacing an unrefined petroleum material in contact with a solid material, said method comprising: contacting the unrefined petroleum material with the compound described herein, a composition described herein, or a surfactant blend described herein, wherein the unrefined petroleum material is in contact with the solid material; and allowing the unrefined petroleum material to separate from the solid material, thereby displacing the unrefined petroleum material in contact with the solid material.

[0024] The details of one or more embodiments of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the disclosure will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

[0025] DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0026] FIG. 1 shows a surface activity map for Lauric Acid, Na salt (0.25% Lauric acid Na salt / NaCl scan at 68 °C).

[0027] FIG. 2 shows phase behavior images for 2-ethyl hexanoate-Na shows no oil solubilization.

[0028] FIG.3 shows a surface activity map for 0.5% CNSL soap / 0.85% IB A, oil scan at 24 °C with NaCl.

[0029] FIG. 4A and 4B show (4A) phase behavior images and (4B) graph showing oil and water solubilization ratios for ASP Formulation 17 (0.3 wt% cardphenol -5PO-5EO and 0.3 wt% C20:24IOS) at a temperature of 70°C with an oil viscosity of 3.2 cp with NazCCU.

[0030] FIG. 5A and 5B show (5 A) phase behavior images and (5B) graph showing oil and water solubilization ratios for SP Formulation 17 (0.3 wt% cardphenol -5PO-5EO and 0.3 wt% C20:24IOS) at a temperature of 70C with an oil viscosity of 3.2 cp with NaCl.

[0031] FIG. 6 shows the composition for CNSL.

[0032] Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.

[0033] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] To facilitate understanding of the disclosure set forth herein, a number of terms are defined below. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein generally have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Publications cited herein and the materials for which they are cited are specifically incorporated by reference.

[0035] DEFINITIONS The term “comprising” and variations thereof as used herein is used synonymously with the term “including” and variations thereof and are open, non-limiting terms. Although the terms “comprising” and “including” have been used herein to describe various embodiments, the terms “consisting essentially of’ and “consisting of’ can be used in place of “comprising” and “including” to provide for more specific embodiments of the invention and are also disclosed. Other than where noted, all numbers expressing quantities of ingredients, reaction conditions, geometries, dimensions, and so forth used in the specification and claims are to be understood at the very least, and not as an attempt to limit the application of the doctrine of equivalents to the scope of the claims, to be construed in light of the number of significant digits and ordinary rounding approaches.

[0036] As used in this specification and the following claims, the terms “comprise” (as well as forms, derivatives, or variations thereof, such as “comprising” and “comprises”) and “include” (as well as forms, derivatives, or variations thereof, such as “including” and “includes”) are inclusive (i.e., open-ended) and do not exclude additional elements or steps. For example, the terms "comprise" and / or "comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. Accordingly, these terms are intended to not only cover the recited element(s) or step(s), but may also include other elements or steps not expressly recited. Furthermore, as used herein, the use of the terms “a”, “an”, and “the” when used in conjunction with an element may mean “one,” but it is also consistent with the meaning of “one or more,” “at least one,” and “one or more than one.” Therefore, an element preceded by “a” or “an” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements.

[0037] The use of the term “about” applies to all numeric values, whether or not explicitly indicated. This term generally refers to a range of numbers that one of ordinary skill in the art would consider as a reasonable amount of deviation to the recited numeric values (i.e., having the equivalent function or result). For example, this term can be construed as including a deviation of ±10 percent of the given numeric value provided such a deviation does not alter the end function or result of the value. Therefore, a value of about 1 % can be construed to be a range from 0.9% to 1.1%. Furthermore, a range may be construed to include the start and the end of the range. For example, a range of 10% to 20% (i.e., range of 10%-20%) can includes 10% and also includes 20%, and includes percentages in between 10% and 20%, unless explicitly stated otherwise herein. It is understood that when combinations, subsets, groups, etc. of elements are disclosed (e.g., combinations of components in a composition, or combinations of steps in a method), that while specific reference of each of the various individual and collective combinations and permutations of these elements may not be explicitly disclosed, each is specifically contemplated and described herein.

[0038] Ranges can be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and / or to “about” another particular value. By “about” is meant within 5% of the value, e.g., within 4, 3, 2, or 1 % of the value. When such a range is expressed, another aspect includes from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint. It is also understood that there are a number of values disclosed herein, and that each value is also herein disclosed as “about” that particular value in addition to the value itself. For example, if the value “10” is disclosed, then “about 10” is also disclosed.

[0039] As used herein, the terms "may," "optionally," and "may optionally" are used interchangeably and are meant to include cases in which the condition occurs as well as cases in which the condition does not occur. Thus, for example, the statement that a formulation "may include an excipient" is meant to include cases in which the formulation includes an excipient as well as cases in which the formulation does not include an excipient.

[0040] The term "contacting" as used herein, refers to materials or compounds being sufficiently close in proximity to react or interact. For example, in methods of contacting an unrefined petroleum material, a hydrocarbon material bearing formation, and / or a well bore, the term "contacting" can include placing a compound (e.g., a surfactant) or an aqueous composition (e.g., chemical, surfactant or polymer) within a hydrocarbon material-bearing formation using any suitable manner known in the art (e.g., pumping, injecting, pouring, releasing, displacing, spotting or circulating the chemical into a well, well bore or hydrocarbon bearing formation).

[0041] The terms "unrefined petroleum" and "crude oil" are used interchangeably and in keeping with the plain ordinary usage of those terms. "Unrefined petroleum" and "crude oil" may be found in a variety of petroleum reservoirs (also referred to herein as a "reservoir," "oil field deposit" "deposit" and the like) and in a variety of forms including oleaginous materials, oil shales (i.e., organic-rich fine-grained sedimentary rock), tar sands, light oil deposits, heavy oil deposits, and the like. "Crude oils" or "unrefined petroleums" generally refer to a mixture of naturally occurring hydrocarbons that may be refined into diesel, gasoline, heating oil, jet fuel, kerosene, and other products called fuels or petrochemicals. Crude oils or unrefined petroleums are named according to their contents and origins, and are classified according to their per unit weight (specific gravity). Heavier crudes generally yield more heat upon burning, but have lower gravity as defined by the American Petroleum Institute (API) (i.e., API gravity) and market price in comparison to light (or sweet) crude oils. Crude oil may also be characterized by its Equivalent Alkane Carbon Number (EACN). The term "API gravity" refers to the measure of how heavy or light a petroleum liquid is compared to water. If an oil's API gravity is greater than 10, it is lighter and floats on water, whereas if it is less than 10, it is heavier and sinks. API gravity is thus an inverse measure of the relative density of a petroleum liquid and the density of water. API gravity may also be used to compare the relative densities of petroleum liquids. For example, if one petroleum liquid floats on another and is therefore less dense, it has a greater API gravity.

[0042] Crude oils vary widely in appearance and viscosity from field to field. They range in color, odor, and in the properties they contain. While all crude oils are mostly hydrocarbons, the differences in properties, especially the variation in molecular structure, determine whether a crude oil is more or less easy to produce, pipeline, and refine. The variations may even influence its suitability for certain products and the quality of those products. Crude oils are roughly classified into three groups, according to the nature of the hydrocarbons they contain, (i) Paraffin-based crude oils contain higher molecular weight paraffins, which are solid at room temperature, but little or no asphaltic (bituminous) matter. They can produce high-grade lubricating oils, (ii) Asphaltene based crude oils contain large proportions of asphaltic matter, and little or no paraffin. Some are predominantly naphthenes and so yield lubricating oils that are sensitive to temperature changes than the paraffin-based crudes, (hi) Mixed based crude oils contain both paraffin and naphthenes, as well as aromatic hydrocarbons. Most crude oils fit this latter category.

[0043] "Reactive" crude oil, as referred to herein, is crude oil containing natural organic acidic components (also referred to herein as unrefined petroleum acid) or their precursors such as esters or lactones. These reactive crude oils can generate soaps (carboxylates) when reacted with alkali. More terms used interchangeably for crude oil throughout this disclosure are hydrocarbon material or active petroleum material. An "oil bank" or "oil cut" as referred to herein, is the crude oil that does not contain the injected chemicals and is pushed by the injected fluid during an enhanced oil recovery process. A "nonactive oil," as used herein, refers to an oil that is not substantially reactive or crude oil not containing significant amounts of natural organic acidic components or their precursors such as esters or lactones such that significant amounts of soaps are generated when reacted with alkali. A nonactive oil as referred to herein includes oils having an acid number of less than 0.5 mg KOH / g of oil.

[0044] "Unrefined petroleum acids" as referred to herein are carboxylic acids contained in active petroleum material (reactive crude oil). The unrefined petroleum acids contain C11-C20 alkyl chains, including napthenic acid mixtures. The recovery of such "reactive" oils may be performed using alkali (e.g., NaOH or NWCOd in a surfactant composition. The alkali reacts with the acid in the reactive oil to form soap in situ. These in situ generated soaps serve as a source of surfactants minimizing the levels of added surfactants, thus enabling efficient oil recovery from the reservoir.

[0045] The term "polymer" refers to a molecule having a structure that essentially includes the multiple repetitions of units derived, actually or conceptually, from molecules of low relative molecular mass. In some embodiments, the polymer is an oligomer.

[0046] The term "productivity" as applied to a petroleum or oil well refers to the capacity of a well to produce hydrocarbons (e.g., unrefined petroleum); that is, the ratio of the hydrocarbon flow rate to the pressure drop, where the pressure drop is the difference between the average reservoir pressure and the flowing bottom hole well pressure (i.e., flow per unit of driving force).

[0047] The term "oil solubilization ratio" is defined as the volume of oil solubilized divided by the volume of surfactant in microemulsion. All the surfactant is presumed to be in the microemulsion phase. The oil solubilization ratio is applied for Winsor type I and type III behavior. The volume of oil solubilized is found by reading the change between initial aqueous level and excess oil (top) interface level. The oil solubilization ratio is calculated as follows: °0 =vvs where oois the oil solubilization ratio, Vois the volume of oil solubilized, and Vsis the volume of surfactant.

[0048] The term "water solubilization ratio" is defined as the volume of water solubilized divided by the volume of surfactant in microemulsion. All the surfactant is presumed to be in the microemulsion phase. The water solubilization ratio is applied for Winsor type III and type II behavior. The volume of water solubilized is found by reading the change between initial aqueous level and excess water (bottom) interface level. The water solubilization parameter is calculated as follows: where owis the water solubilization ratio, Vwis the volume of oil solubilized, and Vsis the volume of surfactant.

[0049] The optimum solubilization ratio occurs where the oil and water solubilization ratios are equal. The coarse nature of phase behavior screening often does not include a data point at optimum, so the solubilization ratio curves are drawn for the oil and water solubilization ratio data and the intersection of these two curves is defined as the optimum. The following is true for the optimum solubilization ratio: where o* is the optimum solubilization ratio.

[0050] The term "solubility" or "solubilization" in general refers to the property of a solute, which can be a solid, liquid or gas, to dissolve in a solid, liquid or gaseous solvent thereby forming a homogenous solution of the solute in the solvent. Solubility occurs under dynamic equilibrium, which means that solubility results from the simultaneous and opposing processes of dissolution and phase joining (e.g., precipitation of solids). The solubility equilibrium occurs when the two processes proceed at a constant rate. The solubility of a given solute in a given solvent typically depends on temperature. For many solids dissolved in liquid water, the solubility increases with temperature. In liquid water at high temperatures, the solubility of ionic solutes tends to decrease due to the change of properties and structure of liquid water. In more particular, solubility and solubilization as referred to herein is the property of oil to dissolve in water and vice versa.

[0051] "Viscosity" refers to a fluid's internal resistance to flow or being deformed by shear or tensile stress. In other words, viscosity may be defined as thickness or internal friction of a liquid. Thus, water is "thin", having a lower viscosity, while oil is "thick", having a higher viscosity. More generally, the less viscous a fluid is, the greater its ease of fluidity.

[0052] The term "salinity" as used herein, refers to concentration of salt dissolved in an aqueous phases. Examples for such salts are without limitation, sodium chloride, magnesium and calcium sulfates, and bicarbonates. In more particular, the term salinity as it pertains to the present invention refers to the concentration of salts in brine and surfactant solutions.

[0053] The term "aqueous solution or aqueous formulation" refers to a solution in which the solvent is water. The term "emulsion, emulsion solution or emulsion formulation" refers to a mixture of two or more liquids which are normally immiscible. A non-limiting example for an emulsion is a mixture of oil and water. The term "co-solvent," as used herein, refers to a compound having the ability to increase the solubility of a solute (e.g., a surfactant as disclosed herein) in the presence of an unrefined petroleum acid. In some embodiments, the co-solvents provided herein have a hydrophobic portion (alkyl or aryl chain), a hydrophilic portion (e.g., an alcohol) and an alkoxy portion.

[0054] The term "interfacial tension" or "IFT" as used herein refers to the surface tension between test oil and water of different salinities containing a surfactant formulation at different concentrations. Typically, interfacia] tensions are measured using a spinning drop tensiometer or calculated from phase behavior experiments.

[0055] The term "contacting" as used herein, refers to materials or compounds being sufficiently close in proximity to react or interact. For example, in methods of contacting an unrefined petroleum material, a hydrocarbon-bearing formation, and / or a wellbore, the term "contacting" can include placing a compound (e.g., a surfactant) or an aqueous composition (e.g., chemical, surfactant or polymer) within a hydrocarbon-bearing formation using any suitable manner known in the art (e.g., pumping, injecting, pouring, releasing, displacing, spotting or circulating the chemical into a well, wellbore or hydrocarbon-bearing formation).

[0056] The term “live oil,” as used herein, refers generally to an oil containing dissolved gas (e.g., methane) in solution.

[0057] Chemical Definitions

[0058] Terms used herein will have their customary meaning in the art unless specified otherwise. The organic moieties mentioned when defining variable positions within the general formulae described herein (e.g., the term “halogen”) are collective terms for the individual substituents encompassed by the organic moiety. Ph in Formula I refers to a phenyl group.

[0059] The prefix Cn-Cmpreceding a group or moiety indicates, in each case, the possible number of carbon atoms in the group or moiety that follows.

[0060] As used herein, the term “substituted” is contemplated to include all permissible substituents of organic compounds. In a broad aspect, the permissible substituents include acyclic and cyclic, branched and unbranched, carbocyclic and heterocyclic, and aromatic and nonaromatic substituents of organic compounds. Illustrative substituents include, for example, those described below. The permissible substituents can be one or more and the same or different for appropriate organic compounds. For purposes of this disclosure, heteroatoms present in a compound or moiety, such as nitrogen, can have hydrogen substituents and / or any permissible substituents of organic compounds described herein which satisfy the valency of the heteroatom. This disclosure is not intended to be limited in any manner by the permissible substituents of organic compounds. Also, the terms “substitution” or “substituted with” include the implicit proviso that such substitution is in accordance with permitted valence of the substituted atom and the substituent, and that the substitution results in a stable compound (e.g., a compound that does not spontaneously undergo transformation such as by rearrangement, cyclization, elimination, etc.

[0061] The term "optionally substituted," as used herein, means that substitution with an additional group is optional and therefore it is possible for the designated atom to be unsubstituted. Thus, by use of the term “optionally substituted” the disclosure includes examples where the group is substituted and examples where it is not.

[0062] “Z1,” “Z2,” “Z3,” and “Z4” are used herein as generic symbols to represent various specific substituents. These symbols can be any substituent, not limited to those disclosed herein, and when they are defined to be certain substituents in one instance, they can, in another instance, be defined as some other substituents.

[0063] As used herein, the term “alkyl” refers to saturated, straight-chained or branched saturated hydrocarbon moieties. Unless otherwise specified, C1-C24 (e.g., C1-C22, C1-C20, Ci- Cis, C1-C16, C1-C14, C1-C12, C1-C10, Ci-Cs, Ci-Ce, or C1-C4) alkyl groups are intended. Examples of alkyl groups include methyl, ethyl, propyl, 1-methyl-ethyl, butyl, 1 -methylpropyl, 2-methyl -propyl, 1,1-dimethyl-ethyl, pentyl, 1-methyl-butyl, 2-methyl -butyl, 3- methyl-butyl, 2,2-dimethyl-propyl, 1-ethyl-propyl, hexyl, 1,1-dimethyl-propyl, 1 ,2-dimethyl- propyl, 1 -methyl -pentyl, 2-methyl-pentyl, 3-methyl-pentyl, 4-methyl-pentyl, 1,1-dimethyl- butyl, 1 ,2-dimethyl-butyl, 1,3-dimethyl-butyl, 2,2-dimethyl-butyl, 2,3-dimethyl-butyl, 3,3- dimethyl-butyl, 1-ethyl-butyl, 2-ethyl-butyl, 1 , 1 ,2-trimethyl -propyl, 1 ,2,2-trimethyl-propyl, 1- ethyl-l-methyl-propyl, and l-ethyl-2-methyl-propyl. Alkyl substituents may be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more chemical moieties. The alkyl group can be substituted with one or more groups including, but not limited to, hydroxy, halogen, acyl, alkyl, alkoxy, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, acyl, aldehyde, amino, carboxylic acid, ester, ether, ketone, nitro, silyl, sulfo-oxo, sulfonyl, sulfone, sulfoxide, thiosulfonate (e.g., -SSCbRa), or thiol, as described below, provided that the substituents are sterically compatible and the rules of chemical bonding and strain energy are satisfied. The alkyl group can also include one or more heteroatoms (e.g., from one to three heteroatoms) incorporated within the hydrocarbon moiety. Examples of heteroatoms include, but are not limited to, nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur, and phosphorus. Throughout the specification “alkyl” is generally used to refer to both unsubstituted alkyl groups and substituted alkyl groups; however, substituted alkyl groups are also specifically referred to herein by identifying the specific substituent(s) on the alkyl group. For example, the term “halogenated alkyl” specifically refers to an alkyl group that is substituted with one or more halides (halogens; e.g., fluorine, chlorine, bromine, or iodine). The term “alkoxyalkyl” specifically refers to an alkyl group that is substituted with one or more alkoxy groups, as described below. The term “alkylamino” specifically refers to an alkyl group that is substituted with one or more amino groups, as described below, and the like. The term “alkylthiol” specifically refers to an alkyl group that is substituted with one or more thiol groups, as described below, and the like. When “alkyl” is used in one instance and a specific term such as “alkylalcohol” is used in another, it is not meant to imply that the term “alkyl” does not also refer to specific terms such as “alkylalcohol” and the like.

[0064] This practice is also used for other groups described herein. That is, while a term such as “cycloalkyl” refers to both unsubstituted and substituted cycloalkyl moieties, the substituted moieties can, in addition, be specifically identified herein; for example, a particular substituted cycloalkyl can be referred to as, e.g., an “alkylcycloalkyl.” Similarly, a substituted alkoxy can be specifically referred to as, e.g., a “halogenated alkoxy,” a particular substituted alkenyl can be, e.g., an “alkenylalcohol,” and the like. Again, the practice of using a general term, such as “cycloalkyl,” and a specific term, such as “alkylcycloalkyl,” is not meant to imply that the general term does not also include the specific term.

[0065] As used herein, the term “alkenyl” refers to unsaturated, straight-chained, or branched hydrocarbon moieties containing a double bond. Unless otherwise specified, C2-C24 (e.g., C2- C22, C2-C20, C2-C18, C2-C16, C2-C14, C2-C12, C2-C10, C2-C8, C2-C6, C2-C4) alkenyl groups are intended. Alkenyl groups may contain more than one unsaturated bond. Examples include ethenyl, 1 -propenyl, 2-propenyl, 1 -methylethenyl, 1-butenyl, 2-butenyl, 3-butenyl, 1 -methyl - 1-propenyl, 2-methyl-l -propenyl, 1 -methyl-2-propenyl, 2-methyl-2-propenyl, 1-pentenyl, 2- pentenyl, 3-pentenyl, 4-pentenyl, 1 -methyl- 1-butenyl, 2-methyl- 1-butenyl, 3-methyl-l- butenyl, 1 -methyl-2-butenyl, 2-methyl-2-butenyl, 3-methyl-2-butenyl, l-methyl-3-butenyl, 2- methyl-3-butenyl, 3-methyl-3-butenyl, l,l-dimethyl-2-propenyl, 1,2-dimethy 1-1 -propenyl, l,2-dimethyl-2-propenyl, 1 -ethyl- 1 -propenyl, l-ethyl-2-propenyl, 1 -hexenyl, 2-hexenyl, 3- hexenyl, 4-hexenyl, 5-hexenyl, 1 -methyl- 1-pentenyl, 2-methyl- 1-pentenyl, 3-methyl-l- pentenyl, 4-methyl- 1-pentenyl, l-methyl-2-pentenyl, 2-methyl-2-pentenyl, 3-methyl-2- pentenyl, 4-methyl-2-pentenyl, l-methyl-3-pentenyl, 2-methyl-3-pentenyl, 3-methyl-3- pentenyl, 4-methyl-3-pentenyl, l-methyl-4-pentenyl, 2-methyl-4-pentenyl, 3-methyl-4- pentenyl, 4-methyl-4-pentenyl, 1 , 1 -dimethyl-2-butenyl, l,l-dimethyl-3-butenyl, 1,2- dimethyl-l-butenyl, 1 ,2-dimethyl-2-butenyl, l,2-dimethyl-3-butenyl, 1,3-dimethyl-l-butenyl, l,3-dimethyl-2-butenyl, l,3-dimethyl-3-butenyl, 2,2-dimethyl-3-butenyl, 2,3-dimethyl-l- butenyl, 2,3-dimethyl-2-butenyl, 2,3-dimethyl-3-butenyl, 3,3-dimethyl-l-butenyl, 3,3- dimethyl-2-butenyl, 1 -ethyl- 1-butenyl, l-ethyl-2-butenyl, l-ethyl-3-butenyl, 2-ethyl-l- butenyl, 2-ethyl-2-butenyl, 2-ethyl-3-butenyl, l,l,2-trimethyl-2-propenyl, 1 -ethyl- 1 -methyl-

[0066] 2-propenyl, 1 -ethyl-2-methyl- 1 -propenyl, and l-ethyl-2-methyl-2-propenyl. The term “vinyl” refers to a group having the structure -CH=CH2; 1 -propenyl refers to a group with the structure-CH=CH-CH3; and 2- propenyl refers to a group with the structure -CH2-CH=CH2. Asymmetric structures such as (Z]Z2)C=C(Z3Z4) are intended to include both the E and Z isomers. This can be presumed in structural formulae herein wherein an asymmetric alkene is present, or it can be explicitly indicated by the bond symbol C=C. Alkenyl substituents may be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more chemical moieties. Examples of suitable substituents include, for example, alkyl, halogenated alkyl, alkoxy, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, acyl, aldehyde, amino, carboxylic acid, ester, ether, halide, hydroxy, ketone, nitro, silyl, sulfo-oxo, sulfonyl, sulfone, sulfoxide, thiosulfonate (e.g., -SSC Ra), or thiol, as described below, provided that the substituents are sterically compatible and the rules of chemical bonding and strain energy are satisfied.

[0067] As used herein, the term “alkynyl” represents straight-chained or branched hydrocarbon moieties containing a triple bond. Unless otherwise specified, C2-C24 (e.g., C2- C22, C2-C20, C2-C1S, C2-C16, C2-C14, C2-C12, C2-C10, C2-Cs, C2-C6, C2-C4) alkynyl groups are intended. Alkynyl groups may contain more than one unsaturated bond. Examples include C2-Ce-alkynyl, such as ethynyl, 1-propynyl, 2-propynyl (or propargyl), 1-butynyl, 2-butynyl,

[0068] 3-butynyl, 1 -methyl-2-propynyl, 1-pentynyl, 2-pentynyl, 3-pentynyl, 4-pentynyl, 3-methyl-l- butynyl, l-methyl-2-butynyl, l-methyl-3-butynyl, 2-methyl-3-butynyl, l,l-dimethyl-2- propynyl, l-ethyl-2-propynyl, 1-hexynyl, 2-hexynyl, 3-hexynyl, 4-hexynyl, 5-hexynyl, 3- methyl- 1-pentynyl, 4-methyl- 1-pentynyl, l-methyl-2-pentynyl, 4-methyl-2-pentynyl, 1- methyl-3-pentynyl, 2-methyl-3-pentynyl, l-methyl-4-pentynyl, 2-methyl-4-pentynyl, 3- methyl-4-pentynyl, 1 , 1 -dimethyl-2-butynyl, l,l-dimethyl-3-butynyl, l,2-dimethyl-3-butynyl, 2,2-dimethyl-3-butynyl, 3, 3 -dimethyl- 1-butynyl, l-ethyl-2-butynyl, l-ethyl-3-butynyl, 2- ethyl-3-butynyl, and 1 -ethyl- 1 -methyl-2-propynyl. Alkynyl substituents may be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more chemical moieties. Examples of suitable substituents include, for example, alkyl, halogenated alkyl, alkoxy, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, acyl, aldehyde, amino, carboxylic acid, ester, ether, halide, hydroxy, ketone, nitro, silyl, sulfo-oxo, sulfonyl, sulfone, sulfoxide, thiosulfonate (e.g., -SSChRa), or thiol, as described below.

[0069] As used herein, the term “aryl,” as well as derivative terms such as aryloxy, refers to groups that include a monovalent aromatic carbocyclic group of from 3 to 20 carbon atoms. Aryl groups can include a single ring or multiple condensed rings. In some embodiments, aryl groups include Ce-Cio aryl groups. Examples of aryl groups include, but are not limited to, phenyl, biphenyl, naphthyl, tetrahydronaphthyl, phenylcyclopropyl, and indanyl. In some embodiments, the aryl group can be a phenyl, indanyl or naphthyl group. The term “heteroaryl” is defined as a group that contains an aromatic group that has at least one heteroatom incorporated within the ring of the aromatic group. Examples of heteroatoms include, but are not limited to, nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur, and phosphorus. The term “non- heteroaryl,” which is included in the term “aryl,” defines a group that contains an aromatic group that does not contain a heteroatom. The aryl or heteroaryl substituents may be unsubstituted or substituted with one or more chemical moieties. Examples of suitable substituents include, for example, alkyl, halogenated alkyl, alkoxy, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, acyl, aldehyde, amino, carboxylic acid, cycloalkyl, ester, ether, halide, hydroxy, ketone, nitro, silyl, sulfo-oxo, sulfonyl, sulfone, sulfoxide, or thiol as described herein. The term “biaryl” is a specific type of aryl group and is included in the definition of aryl. Biaryl refers to two aryl groups that are bound together via a fused ring structure, as in naphthalene, or are attached via one or more carbon-carbon bonds, as in biphenyl.

[0070] The term “cycloalkyl” as used herein is a non-aromatic carbon-based ring composed of at least three carbon atoms. Examples of cycloalkyl groups include, but are not limited to, cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl, etc. The term “heterocycloalkyl” is a cycloalkyl group as defined above where at least one of the carbon atoms of the ring is substituted with a heteroatom such as, but not limited to, nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur, or phosphorus. The cycloalkyl group and heterocycloalkyl group can be substituted or unsubstituted. The cycloalkyl group and heterocycloalkyl group can be substituted with one or more groups including, but not limited to, alkyl, alkoxy, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, acyl, aldehyde, amino, carboxylic acid, ester, ether, halide, hydroxy, ketone, nitro, silyl, sulfo-oxo, sulfonyl, sulfone, sulfoxide, or thiol as described herein.

[0071] The term “cycloalkenyl” as used herein is a non-aromatic carbon-based ring composed of at least three carbon atoms and containing at least one double bound, i.e., C-C. Examples of cycloalkenyl groups include, but are not limited to, cyclopropenyl, cyclobutenyl, cyclopentenyl, cyclopentadienyl, cyclohexenyl, cyclohexadienyl, and the like. The term “heterocycloalkenyl” is a type of cycloalkenyl group as defined above, and is included within the meaning of the term “cycloalkenyl,” where at least one of the carbon atoms of the ring is substituted with a heteroatom such as, but not limited to, nitrogen, oxygen, sulfur, or phosphorus. The cycloalkenyl group and heterocycloalkenyl group can be substituted or unsubstituted. The cycloalkenyl group and heterocycloalkenyl group can be substituted with one or more groups including, but not limited to, alkyl, alkoxy, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, acyl, aldehyde, amino, carboxylic acid, ester, ether, halide, hydroxy, ketone, nitro, silyl, sulfo-oxo, sulfonyl, sulfone, sulfoxide, or thiol as described herein.

[0072] The term “cyclic group” is used herein to refer to either aryl groups, non-aryl groups (z'.e., cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, and heterocycloalkenyl groups), or both. Cyclic groups have one or more ring systems that can be substituted or unsubstituted. A cyclic group can contain one or more aryl groups, one or more non-aryl groups, or one or more aryl groups and one or more non-aryl groups.

[0073] As used herein, “heteroaryl” refers to a monocyclic or polycyclic aromatic heterocycle having at least one heteroatom ring member selected from sulfur, oxygen, and nitrogen. In some embodiments, the heteroaryl ring has 1, 2, 3, or 4 heteroatom ring members independently selected from nitrogen, sulfur and oxygen. In some embodiments, any ringforming N in a heteroaryl moiety can be an N-oxide. In some embodiments, the heteroaryl has 5-10 ring atoms and 1, 2, 3 or 4 heteroatom ring members independently selected from nitrogen, sulfur and oxygen. In some embodiments, the heteroaryl has 5-6 ring atoms and 1 or 2 heteroatom ring members independently selected from nitrogen, sulfur and oxygen. In some embodiments, the heteroaryl is a five-membered or six-membered heteroaryl ring. A fivemembered heteroaryl ring is a heteroaryl with a ring having five ring atoms wherein one or more (e.g., 1, 2, or 3) ring atoms are independently selected from N, O, and S. Exemplary five-membered ring heteroaryls are thienyl, furyl, pyrrolyl, imidazolyl, thiazolyl, oxazolyl, pyrazolyl, isothiazolyl, isoxazolyl, 1 ,2,3-triazoIyI, tetrazolyl, 1,2,3-thiadiazolyl, 1,2,3- oxadiazolyl, 1 ,2,4-triazolyl, 1,2,4-thiadiazolyl, 1,2,4-oxadiazolyl, 1,3,4-triazolyl, 1,3,4- thiadiazolyl, and 1,3,4-oxadiazolyl. A six-membered heteroaryl ring is a heteroaryl with a ring having six ring atoms wherein one or more (e.g., 1, 2, or 3) ring atoms are independently selected from N, O, and S. Exemplary six-membered ring heteroaryls are pyridyl, pyrazinyl, pyrimidinyl, triazinyl and pyridazinyl.

[0074] As used herein, “heterocycloalkyl” refers to non-aromatic monocyclic or polycyclic heterocycles having one or more ring-forming heteroatoms selected from O, N, or S. Included in heterocycloalkyl are monocyclic 4-, 5-, 6-, and 7-membered heterocycloalkyl groups. Heterocycloalkyl groups can also include spirocycles. Example heterocycloalkyl groups include pyrrolidin-2-one, l,3-isoxazolidin-2-one, pyranyl, tetrahydropuran, oxetanyl, azetidinyl, morpholino, thiomorpholino, piperazinyl, tetrahydrofuranyl, tetrahydro thienyl, piperidinyl, pyrrolidinyl, isoxazolidinyl, isothiazolidinyl, pyrazolidinyl, oxazolidinyl, thiazolidinyl, imidazolidinyl, azepanyl, benzazapene, and the like. Ring-forming carbon atoms and heteroatoms of a heterocycloalkyl group can be optionally substituted by oxo or sulfido (e.g., C(O), S(O), C(S), or S(O)2, etc.). The heterocycloalkyl group can be attached through a ring-forming carbon atom or a ring-forming heteroatom. In some embodiments, the heterocycloalkyl group contains 0 to 3 double bonds. In some embodiments, the heterocycloalkyl group contains 0 to 2 double bonds. Also included in the definition of heterocycloalkyl are moieties that have one or more aromatic rings fused (z.<?., having a bond in common with) to the cycloalkyl ring, for example, benzo or thienyl derivatives of piperidine, morpholine, azepine, etc. A heterocycloalkyl group containing a fused aromatic ring can be attached through any ring-forming atom including a ring-forming atom of the fused aromatic ring. In some embodiments, the heterocycloalkyl has 4-10, 4-7 or 4-6 ring atoms with 1 or 2 heteroatoms independently selected from nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur and having one or more oxidized ring members.

[0075] At certain places, the definitions or embodiments refer to specific rings (e.g., an azetidine ring, a pyridine ring, etc.). Unless otherwise indicated, these rings can be attached to any ring member provided that the valency of the atom is not exceeded. For example, an azetidine ring may be attached at any position of the ring, whereas a pyridin-3-yl ring is attached at the 3-position.

[0076] The term “acyl” as used herein is represented by the formula -C(O)Z where Z1can be a hydrogen, hydroxyl, alkoxy, alkyl, halogenated alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, heterocycloalkyl, or heterocycloalkenyl group described above. As used herein, the term “acyl” can be used interchangeably with “carbonyl.” Throughout this specification “C(O)” or “CO” is a short hand notation for C=O.

[0077] As used herein, the term “alkoxy” refers to a group of the formula Z'-O-, where Z1is unsubstituted or substituted alkyl as defined above. Unless otherwise specified, alkoxy groups wherein Z1is a C1-C24 (e.g., C1-C22, C1-C20, Ci-Cis, C1-C16, C1-C14, C1-C12, C1-C10, Ci-Cs, Ci-Ce, C1-C4) alkyl group are intended. Examples include methoxy, ethoxy, propoxy, 1 -methyl-ethoxy, butoxy, 1 -methyl-propoxy, 2-methyl-propoxy, 1,1 -dimethyl-ethoxy, pentoxy, 1-methyl-butyloxy, 2-methyl-butoxy, 3-methyl-butoxy, 2,2-di-methyl-propoxy, 1- ethyl-propoxy, hexoxy, 1,1-dimethyl-propoxy, 1 ,2-dimethyl-propoxy, 1-methyl-pentoxy, 2- methyl-pentoxy, 3-methyl-pentoxy, 4-methyl-penoxy, 1,1-dimethyl-butoxy, 1 ,2-dimethyl- butoxy, 1,3-dimethyl-butoxy, 2,2-dimethyl-butoxy, 2,3-dimethyl-butoxy, 3,3-dimethyl- butoxy, 1-ethyl-butoxy, 2-ethylbutoxy, 1,1,2-trimethyl-propoxy, 1,2,2-trimethyl-propoxy, 1- ethyl-l-methyl-propoxy, and 1 -ethyl-2-methyl -propoxy.

[0078] The term “aldehyde” as used herein is represented by the formula — C(O)H.

[0079] The terms “amine” or “amino” as used herein are represented by the formula — NZ'Z2, where Z1and Z2can each be substitution group as described herein, such as hydrogen, an alkyl, halogenated alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, heterocycloalkyl, or heterocycloalkenyl group described above. “Amido” is — C(O)NZ]Z2.

[0080] The term “carboxylic acid” as used herein is represented by the formula — C(O)OH. A “carboxylate” or “carboxyl” group as used herein is represented by the formula — C(O)O".

[0081] The term “ester” as used herein is represented by the formula — OC(O)Z]or — C(O)OZ*, where Z1can be an alkyl, halogenated alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, heterocycloalkyl, or heterocycloalkenyl group described above.

[0082] The term “ether” as used herein is represented by the formula Z'OZ2, where Z1and Z2can be, independently, an alkyl, halogenated alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, heterocycloalkyl, or heterocycloalkenyl group described above.

[0083] The term “ketone” as used herein is represented by the formula Z’C(O)Z2, where Z1and Z2can be, independently, an alkyl, halogenated alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, heterocycloalkyl, or heterocycloalkenyl group described above.

[0084] The term “halide” or “halogen” or “halo” as used herein refers to fluorine, chlorine, bromine, and iodine.

[0085] The term “hydroxyl” as used herein is represented by the formula — OH.

[0086] The term “nitro” as used herein is represented by the formula — NO2.

[0087] The term “silyl” as used herein is represented by the formula — SiZ*Z2Z3, where Z1, Z2, and Z3can be, independently, hydrogen, alkyl, halogenated alkyl, alkoxy, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, heterocycloalkyl, or heterocycloalkenyl group described above.

[0088] The term “sulfonyl” is used herein to refer to the sulfo-oxo group represented by the formula — S(O)2Z], where Z1can be hydrogen, an alkyl, halogenated alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, heterocycloalkyl, or heterocycloalkenyl group described above. The term “sulfonylamino” or “sulfonamide” as used herein is represented by the formula — S(O)2NH — .

[0089] The term “thiol” as used herein is represented by the formula — SH.

[0090] The term “thio” as used herein is represented by the formula — S — .

[0091] As used herein, Me refers to a methyl group; OMe refers to a methoxy group; and z-Pr refers to an isopropyl group.

[0092] “R1,” “ 2,” “ 3,” “Rn ”etc, where n is some integer, as used herein can, independently, possess one or more of the groups listed above. For example, if R1is a straight chain alkyl group, one of the hydrogen atoms of the alkyl group can optionally be substituted with a hydroxyl group, an alkoxy group, an amine group, an alkyl group, a halide, and the like. Depending upon the groups that are selected, a first group can be incorporated within second group or, alternatively, the first group can be pendant (i.e., attached) to the second group. For example, with the phrase “an alkyl group comprising an amino group,” the amino group can be incorporated within the backbone of the alkyl group. Alternatively, the amino group can be attached to the backbone of the alkyl group. The nature of the group(s) that is (are) selected will determine if the first group is embedded or attached to the second group.

[0093] The term "substituted" refers to a molecule wherein at least one hydrogen atom is replaced with a substituent. When substituted, one or more of the groups are "substituents." The molecule can be multiply substituted. In the case of an oxo substituent ("=O"), two hydrogen atoms are replaced. Example substituents within this context can include halogen, hydroxy, alkyl, alkoxy, nitro, cyano, oxo, carbocyclyl, carbocycloalkyl, heterocarbocyclyl, heterocarbocycloalkyl, aryl, arylalkyl, heteroaryl, heteroarylalkyl, -NRaRb, -NRaC(=O)Rb, - NRaC(=O)NRaNRb, -NRaC(=O)ORb, - NRaSO2Rb, -C(=O)Ra, -C(=O)ORa, -C(=O)NRaRb, -OC(=O)NRaRb, -ORa, -SRa, -SORa, - S(=O)2Ra, -OS(=O)2Ra and -S(=O)2ORa. Ra and Rb in this context can be the same or different and independently hydrogen, halogen hydroxyl, alkyl, alkoxy, alkyl, amino, alkylamino, dialkylamino, carbocyclyl, carbocycloalkyl, heterocarbocyclyl, heterocarbocycloalkyl, aryl, arylalkyl, heteroaryl, heteroarylalkyl.

[0094] Unless stated to the contrary, a formula with chemical bonds shown only as solid lines and not as wedges or dashed lines contemplates each possible stereoisomer or mixture of stereoisomer (e.g., each enantiomer, each diastereomer, each meso compound, a racemic mixture, or scalemic mixture).

[0095] Reference will now be made in detail to specific aspects of the disclosed materials, compounds, compositions, articles, and methods, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying Examples and Figures. Compounds

[0096] Provided herein are surfactant compounds. Compounds provided herein can include derivatives of components of cashew nutshell liquid (CNSL), including derivatives of anacardiac acid, derivatives of cardanol, derivatives of cardol, and derivatives of 2- methylcardol.

[0097] For example, provided herein are compounds defined by Formula I

[0098] Formula I wherein BO represents, individually for each occurrence, -CH2-CH(ethyl)-O- or - CHSCH(0-)CH3; PO represents, individually for each occurrence, -CH2-CH(methyl)-O-; EO represents, individually for each occurrence, -CH2-CH2-O-; R1represents a C15 alkyl group or a C 15 alkenyl group; R2represents hydrogen or methyl; Q is hydrogen, -SO M+, - SO3H, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3M+, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3H, -CH2C(O)O M+, or - CH2C(0)0H; M+, when present, is a cation; x is an integer from 0 to 15; y is an integer from 0 to 50; and z is an integer from 1 to 100.

[0099] In some embodiments, x is an integer from 1 to 5, such as an integer from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 5, from 3 to 4, or from 3 to 5. In other embodiments, x is 0.

[0100] In other embodiments, y is an integer from 1 to 50, such as an integer from 1 to 40, from 1 to 30, from 1 to 20, from 1 to 10, from 5 to 40, from 5 to 30, from 5 to 20, from 5 to 10, from 10 to 40, from 10 to 30, or from 10 to 20. In some embodiments, y is 0.

[0101] In some embodiments, x is an integer from 1 to 50, such as an integer from 1 to 40, from 1 to 30, from 1 to 20, from 1 to 10, from 5 to 40, from 5 to 30, from 5 to 20, from 5 to 10, from 10 to 40, from 10 to 30, or from 10 to 20.

[0102] In some embodiments, R2is hydrogen. In other embodiments, R2is methyl.

[0103] In some embodiments, Q is hydrogen. In other embodiments, Q is -SCENC, -SO3H, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3M+, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3H, -CH2C(O)O’M+, or -CH2C(O)OH. In other embodiments, Q is -SCENE. In other embodiments, Q is-SOiH. In other embodiments, Q is CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3M+. In other embodiments, Q is CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3H. In other embodiments, Q is -CH2C(O)O‘M+. In other embodiments, Q is -CH2C(O)OH. In some embodiments, R1represents a linear C15 alkyl group or a linear C15 alkenyl group. In some embodiments, R1represents a linear C15 alkyl group. In some embodiments, R1represents a linear C15 alkenyl group.

[0104] In some embodiments, R1is represented by the structure below

[0105] In some embodiments, R1is a linear C15 monoene, a linear C15 diene, or a linear C15 triene. In some embodiments, R1is a linear C15 monoene. In some embodiments, R1is a linear C15 diene. In some embodiments, R1is a linear C15 triene. In some embodiments, R1is represented by the structure below jn someembodiments, R1is represented by the structure below [nsome embodiments, R1is represented by the structure below

[0106] Also provided herein are compounds defined by Formula II

[0107] Formula II wherein BO represents -CH2-CH(ethyl)-O- or -CH3CH(O-)CH3; PO represents -CH2- CH(methyl)-O-; EO represents -CH2-CH2-O-; R1represents a C15 alkyl group or a C 15 alkenyl group; Q is hydrogen, -SO3M+, -SO3H, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3M+, CH2CH(OH)CH2- SO3H, -CH2C(O)O’M+, or -CH2C(O)OH; M+, when present, is a cation; x is an integer from 0 to 15; y is an integer from 0 to 50; and z is an integer from 1 to 100.

[0108] In some embodiments, x is an integer from 1 to 5, such as an integer from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 5, from 3 to 4, or from 3 to 5. In other embodiments, x is 0.

[0109] In other embodiments, y is an integer from 1 to 50, such as an integer from 1 to 40, from 1 to 30, from 1 to 20, from 1 to 10, from 5 to 40, from 5 to 30, from 5 to 20, from 5 to 10, from 10 to 40, from 10 to 30, or from 10 to 20. In some embodiments, y is 0.

[0110] In some embodiments, x is an integer from 1 to 50, such as an integer from 1 to 40, from 1 to 30, from 1 to 20, from 1 to 10, from 5 to 40, from 5 to 30, from 5 to 20, from 5 to 10, from 10 to 40, from 10 to 30, or from 10 to 20.

[0111] In some embodiments, Q is hydrogen. In other embodiments, Q is -SO3M+, -SO3H, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3M+, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3H, -CH2C(O)O’M+, or -CH2C(O)OH. In other embodiments, Q is -SO3M+. In other embodiments, Q is-SO3H. In other embodiments, Q is CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3M+. In other embodiments, Q is CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3H. In other embodiments, Q is -CH2C(O)O M . In other embodiments, Q is -CH2C(O)OH.

[0112] In some embodiments, R1represents a linear C15 alkyl group or a linear C15 alkenyl group. In some embodiments, R1represents a linear C15 alkyl group. In some embodiments, R1represents a linear C15 alkenyl group.

[0113] In some embodiments, R1is represented by the structure below

[0114] In some embodiments, R1is a linear C15 monoene, a linear C15 diene, or a linear C15 triene. In some embodiments, R1is a linear C15 monoene. In some embodiments, R1is a linear C15 diene. In some embodiments, R1is a linear C15 triene. In some embodiments, R1is represented by the structure below jn someembodiments, R1is represented by the structure below . In some embodiments, R1is represented by the structure below

[0115] Also provided herein are compounds defined by Formula III

[0116] Formula III

[0117] Formula III or a salt thereof, wherein BO represents -CH2-CH(ethyl)-O- or -CH3CH(O-)CH3; PO represents -CH2-CH(methyl)-O-; EO represents -CH2-CH2-O-; R1represents a C15 alkyl group or a C 15 alkenyl group; R3represents hydrogen, an alkyl group, an alkoxy group, an aryl group, or an alkyleneoxy group; Q is hydrogen, -SO3M+, -SO3H, CH2CH(OH)CH2- SO3M+, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3H, -CH2C(O)O M+, or -CH2C(O)OH; M+, when present, is a cation; x is an integer from 0 to 15; y is an integer from 0 to 50; and z is an integer from 1 to 100.

[0118] In some embodiments, R3is hydrogen. In some embodiments, R3is a mono- and / or di(alkoxy)ester. In some embodiments, R3is an alkoxy group or an alkyleneoxy group.

[0119] In some embodiments, x is an integer from 1 to 5, such as an integer from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 5, from 3 to 4, or from 3 to 5. In other embodiments, x is 0. In other embodiments, y is an integer from 1 to 50, such as an integer from 1 to 40, from 1 to 30, from 1 to 20, from 1 to 10, from 5 to 40, from 5 to 30, from 5 to 20, from 5 to 10, from 10 to 40, from 10 to 30, or from 10 to 20. In some embodiments, y is 0.

[0120] In some embodiments, x is an integer from 1 to 50, such as an integer from 1 to 40, from 1 to 30, from 1 to 20, from 1 to 10, from 5 to 40, from 5 to 30, from 5 to 20, from 5 to 10, from 10 to 40, from 10 to 30, or from 10 to 20.

[0121] In some embodiments, Q is hydrogen. In other embodiments, Q is -SO3M+, -SO3H, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3M+, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3H, -CH2C(O)O’M+, or -CH2C(O)OH. In other embodiments, Q is -SOsM -. In other embodiments, Q is-SChH. In other embodiments, Q is CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3M+. In other embodiments, Q is CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3H. In other embodiments, Q is -CH2C(O)O M+. In other embodiments, Q is -CH2C(O)OH.

[0122] In some embodiments, R1represents a linear C15 alkyl group or a linear C15 alkenyl group. In some embodiments, R1represents a linear C15 alkyl group. In some embodiments, R1represents a linear C15 alkenyl group.

[0123] In some embodiments, R1is represented by the structure below

[0124] In some embodiments, R1is a linear C15 monoene, a linear C15 diene, or a linear C15 triene. In some embodiments, R1is a linear C15 monoene. In some embodiments, R1is a linear C15 diene. In some embodiments, R1is a linear C15 triene. In some embodiments, R1is represented by the structure below jn someembodiments, R1is represented by the structure below . in some embodiments, R1is represented by the structure below

[0125] Also provided are carboxylic acid surfactants. In some embodiments, the carboxylic surfactants can include at least one unsaturated fatty acid salt. In other aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can include at least one saturated fatty acid salt. In yet other aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can include at least one unsaturated fatty acid salt and at least one saturated fatty acid salt. In some aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can include at least one branched fatty acid salt.

[0126] In some aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can include caprylate, pelargonate, caprate, undecylate, laurate, tridecylate, myristate, myristoleate, pentadecylate, palmitate, palmitoleate, sapienate, margarate, stearate, oleate, elaidate, vaccenate, linoleate, linoelaidate, a-linolenate, y-linolenate, stearidonate, nonadecylate, arachidate, eicosenoate, dihomo-y- linolenate, meadate, arachidonate, eicosapentaenoate, heneicosylate, behenate, erucate, docosahexaenoate, tricosylate, lignocerate, nervonate, pentacosylate, cerotate, heptacosylate, montanate, nonacosylate, melissate, henatriacontylate, lacceroate, psyllate, geddate, ceroplastate, hexatriacontylate, anacardate, an acid or salt thereof, or any combination thereof.

[0127] In some aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can include a compound of Formula IV:

[0128] Formula IV or a salt thereof, wherein R1can represent a C15 alkyl group or a C15 alkenyl group. In some such aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can be derived from cashew nut shell liquid.

[0129] In some aspects, R1can represent a linear C15 alkyl group or a linear C15 alkenyl group. In some aspects, R1can represent a linear C15 alkyl group. In some aspects, R1can represent a linear C15 alkenyl group. In some such aspects, R1can be represented by the structure

[0130] In some embodiments, R1can be a linear C15 monoene, a linear C15 diene, or a linear C15 triene. In some embodiments, R1can be a linear C15 monoene. In some embodiments, R1can be a linear C15 diene. In some aspects, R1can be a linear C15 triene. In some embodiments, R1can be represented by the structure ome embodiments, R1can be represented by t In some embodiments, R1can be represented by the structure

[0131] In some embodiments, the carboxylic acid surfactant can include a compound of Formula V :

[0132] Formula V or a salt thereof, wherein each of R2and R3can independently represent a C4-C20 alkyl group or a C4-C20 alkenyl group. In some embodiments, the carboxylic acid surfactant can be produced by the Guerbet reaction. In some embodiments, the carboxylic acid surfactant can include 2-butyl-octanoic acid, 2-hexyl-decanoic acid, 2-decyl-tetradecanoic acid, 2-tetradecyl-octadecanoic acid, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the carboxylic acid surfactant can include another oxidized Guerbet alcohol.

[0133] As described above, the surfactants described herein can be used in oil and gas operations, including EOR operations. The surfactants described herein can also be included in and / or used as emulsion breakers.

[0134] Compositions

[0135] Accordingly, provided are aqueous compositions that include a compound described herein (e.g., a compound of Formula I, Formula II, and / or Formula III). For example, provided herein are aqueous compositions that comprise a compound described herein (e.g., a compound of Formula I, Formula II, and / or Formula III) and water. Also provided are aqueous compositions that include anacardiac acid or a salt thereof. For example, provided herein are aqueous compositions that include anacardiac acid or a salt thereof and water. Also provided are carboxylic acid surfactants described herein. Also provided are carboxylic acid surfactants described herein and water. Additional components, including polymers (e.g., viscosity-enhancing water-soluble polymers), alkali agents, additional surfactants, cosolvents, or any combination thereof, can be present in the aqueous compositions.

[0136] In some embodiments, the aqueous composition can further include an additional surfactant. A surfactant, as used herein, is a compound within the aqueous composition that functions as a surface- ctive agent when the aqueous composition is in contact with a crude oil (e.g., an unrefined petroleum). The surfactant can act to lower the interfacial tension and / or surface tension of the unrefined petroleum. In some embodiments, the surfactant and the compound of Formula I are present in synergistic surface-active amounts. A "synergistic surface active amount," as used herein, means that a compound of Formula I and the surfactant are present in amounts in which the oil surface activity (interfacial tension lowering effect and / or surface tension lowering effect on crude oil when the aqueous composition is added to the crude oil) of the compound and surfactant combined is greater than the additive oil surface activity of the surfactant individually and the compound individually. In some cases, the oil surface activity of the compound and surfactant combination is 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or 100% more than the additive oil surface activity of the surfactant individually and the compound individually. In some embodiments, the oil surface activity of the compound and surfactant combination is 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 times more than the additive oil surface activity of the surfactant individually and the compound individually.

[0137] In another embodiment, the compound and surfactant are present in a surfactant stabilizing amount. A "surfactant stabilizing amount" means that the compound and the surfactant are present in an amount in which the surfactant degrades at a slower rate in the presence of the compound than in the absence of the compound, and / or the compound degrades at a slower rate in the presence of the surfactant than in the absence of the surfactant. The rate of degradation may be 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or 100% slower. In some embodiments, the rate of degradation is 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 times slower.

[0138] In another embodiment, the compound and surfactant are present in a synergistic solubilizing amount. A "synergistic solubilizing amount" means that the compound and the surfactant are present in an amount in which the compound is more soluble in the presence of the surfactant than in the absence of the surfactant, and / or the surfactant is more soluble in the presence of the compound than in the absence of the compound. The solubilization may be 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90% or 100% higher. In some embodiment, the solubilization is 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 times higher. In some embodiments, the compound is present in an amount sufficient to increase the solubility of the surfactant in the aqueous composition relative to the absence of the compound. In other words, in the presence of a sufficient amount of the compound, the solubility of the surfactant in the aqueous composition is higher than in the absence of the compound. In other embodiments, the surfactant is present in an amount sufficient to increase the solubility of the compound in the aqueous composition relative to the absence of the surfactant. Thus, in the presence of a sufficient amount of the surfactant the solubility of the compound in the aqueous solution is higher than in the absence of the surfactant.

[0139] In some embodiments, a single type of surfactant is in the aqueous composition. In other embodiments, a surfactant can comprise a blend of surfactants (e.g., a combination of two or more surfactants). The surfactant blend can comprise a mixture of a plurality of surfactant types. For example, the surfactant blend can include at least two surfactant types, at least three surfactant types, at least four surfactant types, at least five surfactant types, at least six surfactant types, or more. In some embodiments, the surfactant blend can include from two to six surfactant types (e.g., from two to five surfactant types, from two to four surfactant types, from two to three surfactant types, from three to six surfactant types, or from three to five surfactant types). The surfactant types can be independently different (e.g., anionic or cationic surfactants; two anionic surfactants having a different hydrocarbon chain length but are otherwise the same; a sulfate and a sulfonate surfactant that that the same hydrocarbon chain length and are otherwise the same, etc.). Therefore, a person having ordinary skill in the art will immediately recognize that the terms "surfactant" and "surfactant type(s)" have the same meaning and can be used interchangeably.

[0140] In some embodiments, the surfactant can comprise an anionic surfactant, a non-ionic surfactant, a zwitterionic surfactant, a cationic surfactant, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the surfactant can comprise an anionic surfactant, a non-ionic surfactant, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the surfactant can comprise a plurality of anionic surfactants. In some embodiments, the surfactant can comprise a zwitterionic surfactant. "Zwitterionic" or "zwitterion" as used herein refers to a neutral molecule with a positive (or cationic) and a negative (or anionic) electrical charge at different locations within the same molecule. Examples of zwitterionic surfactants include without limitation betains and sultains.

[0141] The surfactant can be any appropriate surfactant useful in the field of enhanced oil recovery. For example, in some embodiments, the surfactant can comprise an internal olefin sulfonate (IOS), an alpha olefin sulfonate (AOS), an alkyl aryl sulfonate (ARS), an alkyl benzene sulfonate (ABS)an alkane sulfonate, a petroleum sulfonate, an alkyl diphenyl oxide (di)sulfonate, an alcohol sulfate, an alkoxy sulfate, an alkoxy sulfonate, an alcohol phosphate, an alkoxy phosphate, a sulfosuccinate ester, an alcohol ethoxylate, an alkyl phenol ethoxylate, a quaternary ammonium salt, a betaine or sultaine. The surfactant as provided herein, can also be a soap.

[0142] In embodiments, the surfactant can comprise an anionic surfactant. For example, the surfactant can comprise an anionic surfactant selected from the group consisting of alkoxy carboxylate surfactants, alkoxy sulfate surfactants, alkoxy sulfonate surfactants, alkyl sulfonate surfactants, aryl sulfonate surfactants, olefin sulfonate surfactants, and combinations thereof. In embodiments, the anionic surfactant can comprise an anionic surfactant blend. Where the anionic surfactant is an anionic surfactant blend, the aqueous composition includes a plurality (i.e., more than one) type of anionic surfactant.

[0143] Suitable surfactants are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent Nos. 3,811,504, 3,811,505, 3,811,507, 3,890,239, 4,463,806, 6,022,843, 6,225,267, and 7,629,299; International Patent Application Publication Nos. WO / 2008 / 079855, WO / 2012 / 027757, WO / 2016 / 145164, and WO / 2011 / 094442; as well as U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2005 / 0199395, 2006 / 0185845, 2006 / 018486, 2009 / 0270281, 2011 / 0046024, 2011 / 0100402, 2011 / 0190175, 2007 / 0191633, 2010 / 004843. 2011 / 0201531, 2011 / 0190174, 2011 / 0071057, 2011 / 0059873, 2011 / 0059872, 2011 / 0048721, 2010 / 0319920, 2010 / 0292110, and 2013 / 0281327, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Additional suitable surfactants are surfactants known to be used in enhanced oil recovery methods, including those discussed in D. B. Levitt, A. C. Jackson, L. Britton and G. A. Pope, "Identification and Evaluation of High-Performance EOR Surfactants," SPE 1X89, conference contribution for the SPE Symposium on Improved Oil Recovery Annual Meeting, Tulsa, Okla., Apr. 24-26, 2006.

[0144] A person having ordinary skill in the art will immediately recognize that many surfactants are commercially available as blends of related molecules (e.g., IOS and ABS surfactants). Thus, where a surfactant is present within a composition provided herein, a person of ordinary skill would understand that the surfactant might be a blend of a plurality of related surfactant molecules (as described herein and as generally known in the art).

[0145] In some embodiments, the total surfactant concentration in the aqueous composition is of 10% w / w or less (e.g., 7.5% w / w or less, 5% w / w or less, 2.5% w / w or less, 1% w / w or less, or 0.5% w / w or less). In some embodiments, the total surfactant concentration in the aqueous composition is of at least 0.1% w / w (e.g., at least 7.5% w / w, at least 5% w / w, at least 2.5% w / w, at least 1% w / w, or at least 0.5% w / w,

[0146] The total surfactant concentration in the aqueous composition can be present in an amount ranging from any of the minimum values described above to any of the maximum values described above. For example, in some embodiments, the total surfactant concentration in the aqueous composition is from 0.05% w / w to 10% w / w (e.g., from 0.05% w / w to 7.5% w / w, from 0.05% w / w to 5% w / w, from 0.05% w / w to 2.5% w / w from 0.05% w / w to 1% w / w, from 0.05% w / w to 0.5% w / w, from 0.05% w / w to 0.1% w / w, from 0.1% w / w to 10% w / w, from 0.1% w / w to 7.5% w / w, from 0.1% w / w to 5% w / w, from 0.1% w / w to 2.5% w / w from 0.1% w / w to 1% w / w, from 0.1% w / w to 0.5% w / w, from 0.5% w / w to 10% w / w, from 0.5% w / w to 7.5% w / w, from 0.5% w / w to 5% w / w, from 0.5% w / w to 2.5% w / w from 0.5% w / w to 1% w / w, from 1% w / w to 10% w / w, from 1% w / w to 7.5% w / w, from 1% w / w to 5% w / w, from 1% w / w to 2.5% w / w, from 2.5% w / w to 10% w / w, from 2.5% w / w to 7.5% w / w, from 2.5% w / w to 5% w / w, from 5% w / w to 7.5% w / w, from 5% w / w to 10% w / w, or from 7.5% w / w to 10% w / w). In other embodiments, the total surfactant concentration in the aqueous composition is 0.5% w / w, 1.0% w / w, 1.25% w / w, 1.5% w / w, 1.75% w / w, 2.0% w / w, 2.5% w / w, 3.0% w / w, 3.5% w / w, 4.0% w / w, 4.5% w / w, 5.0% w / w, 5.5% w / w, 6.0% w / w, 6.5% w / w, 7.0% w / w, 7.5% w / w, 8.0% w / w, 9.0% w / w, or 10% w / w. In some aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can be present in the aqueous composition in an amount of at least 0.5% (e.g., at least 0.6%, at least 0.7%, at least 0.8%, at least 0.9%, at least 1%, at least 1.25%, at least 1.5%, at least 1.75%, at least 2%, at least 2.25%, at least 2.5%, at least 2.75%, at least 3%, at least 3.25%, at least 3.5%, at least 3.75%, at least 4%, at least 4.25%, at least 4.5%, at least 4.75%, at least 5%) by weight. In some aspects, the carboxylate surfactant can be present in the aqueous composition in an amount of up to 5% (e.g., up to 4.75%, up to 4.5%, up to 4.25%, up to 4%, up to 3.75%, up to 3.5%, up to 3.25%, up to 3%, up to 2.75%, up to 2.5%, up to 2.25%, up to 2%, up to 1 .75%, up to 1.5%, up to 1.25%, up to 1%, up to 0.9%, up to 0.8%, up to 0.7%, up to 0.6%, up to 0.5%) by weight.

[0147] The carboxylic acid surfactant can be present in the aqueous composition in an amount ranging from any of the minimum values described above to any of the maximum values described above. For example, in some embodiments, the carboxylic acid surfactant can be present in the aqueous composition in an amount of from 0.5% to 5% (e.g., from 0.6% to 4.75%, from 0.7% to 4.5%, from 0.8% to 4.25%, from 0.9% to 4%, from 1% to 3.75%, from 1.25% to 3.5%, from 1.5% to 3.25%, from 1.75% to 3%, from 2% to 2.75%, from 2.25% to 2.5%, from 0.5% to 2.5%, from 0.6% to 2.25%, from 0.7% to 2%, from 0.8% to 1.75%, from 0.9% to 1.5%, from 1% to 1.25%, from 2.25% to 5%, from 2.5% to 4.75%, from 2.75% to 4.5%, from 3% to 4.25%, from 3.25% to 4%, from 3.5% to 3.75%) by weight.

[0148] In some embodiments, the aqueous compositions can further include a viscosity enhancing water-soluble polymer. In some embodiments, the water-soluble polymer may be a biopolymer such as xanthan gum or scleroglucan, a synthetic polymer such as polyacryamide, hydrolyzed polyarcrylamide or co-polymers of acrylamide and acrylic acid, 2-acrylamido 2- methyl propane sulfonate or N-vinyl pyrrolidone, a synthetic polymer such as polyethylene oxide, or any other high molecular weight polymer soluble in water or brine. In some embodiments, the polymer is polyacrylamide (PAM), partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamides (HP AM), and copolymers of 2-acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid or sodium salt or mixtures thereof, and polyacrylamide (PAM) commonly referred to as AMPS copolymer and mixtures of the copolymers thereof. In one embodiment, the viscosity enhancing water- soluble polymer is polyacrylamide or a co-polymer of polyacrylamide. In one embodiment, the viscosity enhancing water-soluble polymer is a partially (e.g. 20%, 25%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 45%) hydrolyzed anionic polyacrylamide. In some further embodiment, the viscosity enhancing water-soluble polymer has a molecular weight of approximately about 8xl06Daltons. In some other further embodiment, the viscosity enhancing water-soluble polymer has a molecular weight of approximately about 18xl06Daltons. Non- limiting examples of commercially available polymers useful for the invention including embodiments provided herein are Florpaam 3330S and Florpaam 3360S. Molecular weights of the polymers may range from about 10,000 Daltons to about 20,000,000 Daltons. In some embodiments, the viscosity enhancing water-soluble polymer is used in the range of about 500 to about 5000 ppm concentration, such as from about 1000 to 2000 ppm (e.g., in order to match or exceed the reservoir oil viscosity under the reservoir conditions of temperature and pressure).

[0149] In some embodiments, the aqueous compositions can further include an alkali agent. An alkali agent as provided herein can be a basic, ionic salt of an alkali metal (e.g., lithium, sodium, potassium) or alkaline earth metal element (e.g., magnesium, calcium, barium, radium). Examples of suitable alkali agents include, for example, NaOH, KOH, LiOH, Na2CO , NaHCOs, Na-metaborate, Na silicate, Na orthosilicate, Na acetate or NH4OH. In some embodiments, the aqueous composition includes hard brine water or soft brine water. In some further embodiments, the water is soft brine water. In some further embodiments, the water is hard brine water. Where the aqueous composition includes soft brine water, the aqueous composition can further include an alkaline agent. In soft brine water the alkaline agent can provide for enhanced soap generation from the active oils, lower surfactant adsorption to the solid material (e.g., rock) in the reservoir and increased solubility of viscosity enhancing water soluble polymers. The aqueous composition may include seawater, or fresh water from an aquifer, river or lake.

[0150] The alkali agent can be present in the aqueous composition at a concentration from 0.1% w / w to 10% w / w. The combined amount of alkali agent and compound provided herein (e.g., compound of Formula I) present in the aqueous composition provided herein can be approximately equal to or less than 10% w / w. In some embodiments, the total concentration of alkali agent (i.e., the total amount of alkali agent within the aqueous compositions and emulsion compositions provided herein) in is from 0.05% w / w to 5% w / w. In other embodiments, the total alkali agent concentration in the aqueous composition is from 0.25% w / w to 5% w / w. In other embodiments, the total alkali agent concentration in the aqueous composition is 0.5% w / w. In other embodiments, the total alkali agent concentration in the aqueous composition is 0.75% w / w. In other embodiments, the total alkali agent concentration in the aqueous composition is 1% w / w. In other embodiments, the total alkali agent concentration in the aqueous composition is 1.25% w / w. In other embodiments, the total alkali agent concentration in the aqueous composition is 1.50% w / w. In other embodiments, the total alkali agent concentration in the aqueous composition is 1.75% w / w. In other embodiments, the total alkali agent concentration in the aqueous composition is 2% w / w. In other embodiments, the total alkali agent concentration in the aqueous composition is 2.25% w / w. In other embodiments, the total alkali agent concentration in the aqueous composition is 2.5% w / w. In other embodiments, the total alkali agent concentration in the aqueous composition is 2.75% w / w. In other embodiments, the total alkali agent concentration in the aqueous composition is 3% w / w. In other embodiments, the total alkali agent concentration in the aqueous composition is 3.25% w / w. In other embodiments, the total alkali agent concentration in the aqueous composition is 3.5% w / w. In other embodiments, the total alkali agent concentration in the aqueous composition is 3.75% w / w. In other embodiments, the total alkali agent concentration in the aqueous composition is 4% w / w. In other embodiments, the total alkali agent concentration in the aqueous composition is 4.25% w / w. In other embodiments, the total alkali agent concentration in the aqueous composition is 4.5% w / w. In other embodiments, the total alkali agent concentration in the aqueous composition is 4.75% w / w. In other embodiments, the total alkali agent concentration in the aqueous composition is 5.0% w / w. In some embodiments, the alkali agent can be present in the aqueous compositions in an effective amount to afford an aqueous composition having a pH of from 10 to 12 (e.g., 10.5 to 11.5).

[0151] In some embodiments, the aqueous compositions can further include a co-solvent. In embodiments, the co-solvent is an alcohol, alcohol ethoxylate, glycol ether, glycols, or glycerol. The aqueous compositions provided herein may include more than one co-solvent. Thus, in embodiments, the aqueous composition includes a plurality of different co-solvents. Where the aqueous composition includes a plurality of different co-solvents, the different cosolvents can be distinguished by their chemical (structural) properties. For example, the aqueous composition may include a first co-solvent, a second co-solvent and a third cosolvent, wherein the first co-solvent is chemically different from the second and the third cosolvent, and the second co-solvent is chemically different from the third co-solvent. In embodiments, the plurality of different co-solvents includes at least two different alcohols (e.g., a Ci-Ce alcohol and a C1-C4 alcohol). In embodiments, the aqueous composition includes a Ci-Ce alcohol and a C1-C4 alcohol. In embodiments, the plurality of different cosolvents includes at least two different alkoxy alcohols (e.g., a Ci-Ce alkoxy alcohol and a Ci- C4 alkoxy alcohol). In some embodiments, the aqueous composition includes a Ci-Ce alkoxy alcohol and a C1-C4 alkoxy alcohol. In some embodiments, the plurality of different cosolvents includes at least two co-solvents selected from the group consisting of alcohols, alkyl alkoxy alcohols and phenyl alkoxy alcohols. For example, the plurality of different co- solvents may include an alcohol and an alkyl alkoxy alcohol, an alcohol and a phenyl alkoxy alcohol, or an alcohol, an alkyl alkoxy alcohol and a phenyl alkoxy alcohol. The alkyl alkoxy alcohols or phenyl alkoxy alcohols provided herein have a hydrophobic portion (alkyl or aryl chain), a hydrophilic portion (e.g., an alcohol) and optionally an alkoxy (ethoxylate or propoxylate) portion. Thus, in some embodiments, the co-solvent is an alcohol, alkoxy alcohol, glycol ether, glycol or glycerol. Suitable co-sol vents are known in the art, and include, for example, co-solvents described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0281327 which is hereby incorporated herein in its entirety

[0152] In some embodiments, a co-solvent can be present in an amount sufficient to increase the solubility of the surfactants in the aqueous phase relative to the absence of the co-solvent. In other words, in the presence of a sufficient amount of the co-solvent, the solubility of the co-solvent in the aqueous phase is higher than in the absence of the co-solvent. In embodiments, the co-solvent can be present in an amount sufficient to increase the solubility of the surfactant in the aqueous phase relative to the absence of the co-solvent. Thus, in the presence of a sufficient amount of the co-solvent the solubility of the surfactant in the aqueous phase can be higher than in the absence of the co-solvent. In embodiments, the cosolvent can be present in an amount sufficient to decrease the viscosity of an emulsion formed from the composition relative to the absence of the co-solvent.

[0153] In other embodiments, the aqueous composition can be substantially free of cosolvents (e.g., the composition can include less than 0.05% by weight additional co-solvents, based on the total weight of the composition).

[0154] In some embodiments, the aqueous composition can have a pH of at least 7 (e.g., a pH of at least 7.5, a pH of at least 8, a pH of at least 8.5, a pH of at least 9, a pH of at least 9.5, a pH of at least 10, a pH of at least 10.5, a pH of at least 11 , a pH of at least 11.5, or a pH of at least 12.5). In some embodiments, the aqueous composition can have a pH of 13 or less (e.g., a pH of 12.5 or less, a pH of 12 or less, a pH of 11.5 or less, a pH of 11 or less, a pH of 10.5 or less, a pH of 10 or less, a pH of 9.5 or less, a pH of 9 or less, a pH of 8.5 or less, a pH of 8 or less, or a pH of 7.5 or less).

[0155] The aqueous composition can have a pH ranging from any of the minimum values described above to any of the maximum values described above. For example, the aqueous composition can have a pH of from 7 to 13 (e.g., from 10 to 12, or from 10.5 to 11.5).

[0156] In some embodiments, the aqueous composition can have a salinity of at least 100 ppm, (e.g., at least 500 ppm, at least 1,000 ppm, at least 5,000 ppm, at least 10,000 ppm, at least 50,000 ppm, at least 100,000 ppm, or at least 250,000 ppm). In some embodiments, the aqueous composition can have a salinity of 260,000 ppm or less, (e.g., 500 ppm or less, 1,000 ppm or less, 5,000 ppm or less, 10,000 ppm or less, 50,000 ppm or less, 100,000 ppm or less, or 250,000 ppm or less).

[0157] The aqueous composition can have a salinity of ranging from any of the minimum values described above to any of the maximum values described above. For example, in some embodiments, the aqueous composition can have a salinity of from 100 ppm to 260,000 ppm (e.g., from 100 ppm to 250,000 ppm, from 100 ppm to 225,000 ppm, from 100 ppm to 200,000 ppm, from 100 ppm to 150,000 ppm, from 100 ppm to 100,000 ppm, from 100 ppm to 50,000 ppm, from 100 ppm to 10,000 ppm, from 100 ppm to 5,000 ppm, from 100 ppm to 1,000 ppm, from 100 ppm to 500 ppm, from 1000 ppm to 250,000 ppm, from 1000 ppm to 225,000 ppm, from 1000 ppm to 200,000 ppm, from 1000 ppm to 150,000 ppm, from 1000 ppm to 100,000 ppm, from 1000 ppm to 50,000 ppm, from 1000 ppm to 10,000 ppm, from 1000 ppm to 5,000 ppm, from 5000 ppm to 250,000 ppm, from 5000 ppm to 225,000 ppm, from 5000 ppm to 200,000 ppm, from 5000 ppm to 150,000 ppm, from 5000 ppm to 100,000 ppm, from 5000 ppm to 50,000 ppm, from 5000 ppm to 10,000 ppm, from 10,000 ppm to 250,000 ppm, from 10,000 ppm to 225,000 ppm, from 10,000 ppm to 200,000 ppm, from 10,000 ppm to 150,000 ppm, from 10,000 ppm to 100,000 ppm, from 10,000 ppm to 50,000 ppm, from 50,000 ppm to 250,000 ppm, from 50,000 ppm to 225,000 ppm, from 50,000 ppm to 200,000 ppm, from 50,000 ppm to 150,000 ppm, from 50,000 ppm to 100,000 ppm, from 100,000 ppm to 250,000 ppm, from 100,000 ppm to 225,000 ppm, from 100,000 ppm to 200,000 ppm, from 100,000 ppm to 150,000 ppm, from 150,000 ppm to 250,000 ppm, from 150,000 ppm to 225,000 ppm, from 150,000 ppm to 200,000 ppm, from 200,000 ppm to 250,000 ppm, from 200,000 ppm to 225,000 ppm, or from 225,000 ppm to 250,000 ppm). The aqueous combination may further include salt to increase the salinity. In some embodiments, the salt is NaCl, KC1, CaCh, MgCh, CaSC , Na acetate or NasCCh.

[0158] In some embodiments, the aqueous composition can have a viscosity of between 20 mPas and 100 mPas at 20°C. The viscosity of the aqueous solution may be increased from 0.3 mPas to 1, 2, 10, 20, 100 or even 1000 mPas by including a water-soluble polymer.

[0159] Also provided are emulsions comprising a compound described herein or an aqueous composition described herein and unrefined petroleum. In some embodiments, the emulsion composition can be a microemulsion. A "microemulsion" as referred to herein is a thermodynamically stable mixture of oil, water and surfactants that may also include additional components such as co-solvents, electrolytes, alkali and polymers. In contrast, a "macroemulsion" as referred to herein is a thermodynamically unstable mixture of oil and water that may also include additional components. The emulsion composition provided herein may be an oil-in-water emulsion, wherein a surfactant forms aggregates (e.g., micelles) where the hydrophilic part of the surfactant molecule(s) contacts the aqueous phase of the emulsion and the lipophilic part contacts the oil phase of the emulsion. Thus, in some embodiments, the surfactant(s) form part of the aqueous part of the emulsion. And in other embodiments, the surfactant(s) form part of the oil phase of the emulsion. In yet another embodiment, the surfactant(s) form part of an interface between the aqueous phase and the oil phase of the emulsion.

[0160] In other embodiments, the oil and water solubilization ratios are insensitive to the combined concentration of divalent metal cations (e.g., Ca2+and Mg2+) within the emulsion composition. In other embodiments, the oil and water solubilization ratios are insensitive to the salinity of the water or to all of the specific electrolytes contained in the water. The term "insensitive" used in the context of this paragraph means that the solubilization ratio tends not to change (e.g., tends to remain constant) as the concentration of divalent metal cations and / or salinity of water changes. In some embodiments, the change in the solubilization ratios are less than 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, or 50% over a divalent metal cation concentration range of 10 ppm, 100 ppm, 1000 ppm or 10,000 ppm. In another embodiment, the change in the solubilization ratios are less than 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, or 50% over a salinity concentration range of 10 ppm, 100 ppm, 1000 ppm or 10,000 ppm.

[0161] Polymers

[0162] Also provided herein are polymers derived from condensation of an alcohol and an aldehyde, wherein the alcohol comprises a compound defined by Formula IV

[0163] Formula IV wherein BO represents -CH2-CH(ethyl)-O- or -CH3CH(O-)CH3; PO represents -CH2- CH(methyl)-O-; EO represents -CH2-CH2-O-; R1represents a C15 alkyl group or a C 15 alkenyl group; Q is hydrogen; x is an integer from 0 to 15; y is an integer from 0 to 50; and z is an integer from 0 to 100.

[0164] In some embodiments, the aldehyde comprises formaldehyde.

[0165] In some embodiments, x is an integer from 1 to 5. In other embodiments, x is 0. In some embodiments, y is 0. In other embodiments, y is an integer from 1 to 50, such as an integer from 1 to 40, from 1 to 30, from 1 to 20, from 1 to 10, from 5 to 40, from 5 to 30, from 5 to 20, from 5 to 10, from 10 to 40, from 10 to 30, or from 10 to 20.

[0166] In some embodiments, x is 0. In other embodiments, x is an integer from 1 to 50, such as an integer from 1 to 40, from 1 to 30, from 1 to 20, from 1 to 10, from 5 to 40, from 5 to 30, from 5 to 20, from 5 to 10, from 10 to 40, from 10 to 30, or from 10 to 20.

[0167] In some embodiments, R1represents a linear C15 alkyl group or a linear C15 alkenyl group. In some embodiments, R1is represented by the structure below

[0168] In some embodiments, R1is a linear C15 monoene, a linear C15 diene, or a linear C15 triene. In some embodiments, R1is represented by the structure below meembodiments, R1is represented by the . in some embodiments, R1is represented by the structure below

[0169] In certain examples, the alcohol comprises cardanol.

[0170] In some embodiments, these polymers can be used in an oil and gas operation, such as an enhanced oil recovery operation.

[0171] In some embodiments, these polymers can be used an emulsion breaker.

[0172] Surfactant blends and Solubilizers

[0173] Provided herein are also surfactant blends including a carboxylic acid surfactant and one or more additional components.

[0174] In some aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can include at least one unsaturated fatty acid salt. In other aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can include at least one saturated fatty acid salt. In yet other aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can include at least one unsaturated fatty acid salt and at least one saturated fatty acid salt. In some aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can include at least one branched fatty acid salt.

[0175] In some aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can include caprylate, pelargonate, caprate, undecylate, laurate, tridecylate, myristate, myristoleate, pentadecylate, palmitate, palmitoleate, sapienate, margarate, stearate, oleate, elaidate, vaccenate, linoleate, linoelaidate, a-linolenate, y-linolenate, stearidonate, nonadecylate, arachidate, eicosenoate, dihomo-y- linolenate, meadate, arachidonate, eicosapentaenoate, heneicosylate, behenate, erucate, docosahexaenoate, tricosylate, lignocerate, nervonate, pentacosylate, cerotate, heptacosylate, montanate, nonacosylate, melissate, henatriacontylate, lacceroate, psyllate, geddate, ceroplastate, hexatnacontylate, anacardate, an acid or salt thereof, or any combination thereof.

[0176] In some aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can include a compound of Formula

[0177] IV:

[0178] Formula IV or a salt thereof, wherein R1can represent a Cis alkyl group or a Cis alkenyl group. In some such aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can be derived from cashew nut shell liquid.

[0179] In some aspects, R1can represent a linear Cis alkyl group or a linear Cis alkenyl group. In some aspects, R1can represent a linear Cis alkyl group. In some aspects, R1can represent a linear Cis alkenyl group. In some such aspects, R1can be represented by the structure

[0180] In some aspects, R1can be a linear Cis monoene, a linear Cis diene, or a linear Cis triene. In some aspects, R1can be a linear Cis monoene. In some aspects, R1can be a linear Cis diene. In some aspects, R1can be a linear Cis triene. represented by the structure

[0181] . In other such aspects, R1can be represented by the s . In yet other such aspects, R1can be represented by the structure

[0182] In some aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can include a compound of Formula V:

[0183] Formula V or a salt thereof, wherein each of R2and R3can independently represent a C4-C20 alkyl group or a C4-C20 alkenyl group. In some such aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can be produced by the Guerbet reaction.

[0184] In some aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can include 2-butyl-octanoic acid, 2- hexyl-decanoic acid, 2-decyl-tetradecanoic acid, 2-tetradecyl-octadecanoic acid, or any combination thereof. In other aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can include another oxidized Guerbet alcohol. In some aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can be present in an amount of at least 0.5% (e.g., at least 0.6%, at least 0.7%, at least 0.8%, at least 0.9%, at least 1%, at least 1.25%, at least 1.5%, at least 1.75%, at least 2%, at least 2.25%, at least 2.5%, at least 2.75%, at least 3%, at least 3.25%, at least 3.5%, at least 3.75%, at least 4%, at least 4.25%, at least 4.5%, at least 4.75%, at least 5%) by weight. In some aspects, the carboxylate surfactant can be present in an amount of up to 5% (e.g., up to 4.75%, up to 4.5%, up to 4.25%, up to 4%, up to 3.75%, up to 3.5%, up to 3.25%, up to 3%, up to 2.75%, up to 2.5%, up to 2.25%, up to 2%, up to 1.75%, up to 1.5%, up to 1.25%, up to 1 %, up to 0.9%, up to 0.8%, up to 0.7%, up to 0.6%, up to 0.5%) by weight.

[0185] The carboxylic acid surfactant can be present in an amount ranging from any of the minimum values described above to any of the maximum values described above. For example, in some embodiments, the carboxylic acid surfactant can be present in an amount of from 0.5% to 5% (e.g., from 0.6% to 4.75%, from 0.7% to 4.5%, from 0.8% to 4.25%, from 0.9% to 4%, from 1% to 3.75%, from 1.25% to 3.5%, from 1.5% to 3.25%, from 1.75% to 3%, from 2% to 2.75%, from 2.25% to 2.5%, from 0.5% to 2.5%, from 0.6% to 2.25%, from 0.7% to 2%, from 0.8% to 1.75%, from 0.9% to 1.5%, from 1% to 1.25%, from 2.25% to 5%, from 2.5% to 4.75%, from 2.75% to 4.5%, from 3% to 4.25%, from 3.25% to 4%, from 3.5% to 3.75%) by weight.

[0186] In some embodiments, the one or more additional components can include a cosurfactant, a co-solvent, or a combination thereof. In some aspects, the one or more additional components can include a co- surfactant. In some aspects, the one or more additional components can include a co-solvent.

[0187] In some aspects, the one or more additional components can include a co- surfactant. In some aspects, the co-surfactant can include an anionic surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, a cationic surfactant, a zwitterionic surfactant, or any combination thereof. In some such aspects, the co-surfactant can include an anionic surfactant. In other such aspects, the cosurfactant can include a nonionic surfactant. In yet other such aspects, the co-surfactant can include a cationic surfactant. In yet still other such aspects, the co-surfactant can include a zwitterionic surfactant. In some aspects, the co-surfactant may not include a sulfonate. In some aspects, the co-surfactant can include tri styrylphenol (TSP)-based surfactant.

[0188] In some aspects, the co-surfactant can be present in an amount of at least about 0.5% (e.g., at least 0.6%, at least 0.7%, at least 0.8%, at least 0.9%, at least 1%, at least 1.25%, at least 1.5%, at least 1.75%, at least 2%, at least 2.25%, at least 2.5%, at least 2.75%, at least 3%, at least 3.25%, at least 3.5%, at least 3.75%, at least 4%, at least 4.25%, at least 4.5%, at least 4.75%, at least 5%) by weight. In some aspects, the co-surfactant can be present in an amount of up to 5% (e.g., up to 4.75%, up to 4.5%, up to 4.25%, up to 4%, up to 3.75%, up to 3.5%, up to 3.25%, up to 3%, up to 2.75%, up to 2.5%, up to 2.25%, up to 2%, up to 1.75%, up to 1.5%, up to 1.25%, up to 1%, up to 0.9%, up to 0.8%, up to 0.7%, up to 0.6%, up to 0.5%) by weight.

[0189] It is considered that the co-surfactant can be present in an amount ranging from any of the minimum values described above to any of the maximum values described above. For example, in some aspects, the co-surfactant can be present in an amount of from about 0.5% to about 5% (e.g., from 0.6% to 4.75%, from 0.7% to 4.5%, from 0.8% to 4.25%, from 0.9% to 4%, from 1% to 3.75%, from 1.25% to 3.5%, from 1.5% to 3.25%, from 1.75% to 3%, from 2% to 2.75%, from 2.25% to 2.5%, from 0.5% to 2.5%, from 0.6% to 2.25%, from 0.7% to 2%, from about 0.8% to 1.75%, from 0.9% to 1.5%, from 1% to 1.25%, from 2.25% to 5%, from 2.5% to about 4.75%, from 2.75% to 4.5%, from 3% to 4.25%, from 3.25% to about 4%, from 3.5% to about 3.75%) by weight.

[0190] In some aspects, the one or more additional components can include a co-solvent. In some such aspects, the co-solvent can include an alcohol, an alcohol ethoxylate, a glycol ether, glycol, glycerol, or any combination thereof. The surfactant blends provided herein may include more than one co-solvent. Thus, in some aspects, the one or more additional components can include a plurality of different co-solvents. Where the one or more additional components include a plurality of different co-solvents, the different co-solvents can be distinguished by their chemical (structural) properties. For example, the one or more additional components may include a first co-solvent, a second co-solvent and a third cosolvent, wherein the first co-solvent may be chemically different from the second and the third co-solvent, and the second co-solvent may be chemically different from the third cosolvent. In some aspects, the plurality of different co-solvents can include at least two different alcohols (e.g., a Ci-Ce alcohol and a C1-C4 alcohol). In some aspects, the one or more additional components can include a Ci-G, alcohol and a C1-C4 alcohol. In some aspects, the plurality of different co-solvents can include at least two different alkoxy alcohols (e.g., a Ci-Ce alkoxy alcohol and a C1-C4 alkoxy alcohol). In some aspects, the one or more additional components can include a Ci-Ce alkoxy alcohol and a C1-C4 alkoxy alcohol. In some aspects, the plurality of different co-solvents can include at least two cosolvents selected from the group consisting of alcohols, alkyl alkoxy alcohols and phenyl alkoxy alcohols. For example, the plurality of different co-solvents may include an alcohol and an alkyl alkoxy alcohol, an alcohol and a phenyl alkoxy alcohol, or an alcohol, an alkyl alkoxy alcohol and a phenyl alkoxy alcohol. The alkyl alkoxy alcohols or phenyl alkoxy alcohols provided herein may have a hydrophobic portion (alkyl or aryl chain), a hydrophilic portion (e.g., an alcohol) and optionally an alkoxy (ethoxylate or propoxylate) portion. Thus, in some aspects, the co-solvent can be an alcohol, alkoxy alcohol, glycol ether, glycol or glycerol. Suitable co-solvents are known in the art, and can include, for example, surfactants described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0281327 which is hereby incorporated herein in its entirety.

[0191] In some aspects, the surfactant blend can further include a chelating agent. In some such aspects, the chelating agent can include ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), methylglycinediacetic acid (MGDA), glutamic acid N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA), ethylene glycol-bis(P-aminoethyl ether)-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (EGTA), diethylenetriamine pentaacetate (DTPA), di ethylenetriamine penta(methylene phosphonic acid) (DTPMP), 1- Hydroxy Ethylidene-l,l-Diphosphonic Acid (HEDP), a sulfosuccinate (e.g., disodium N- octadecyl sulfosuccinate, disodium lauryl sulfosuccinate, diammonium lauryl sulfosuccinate, sodium lauryl sulfosuccinate, disodium laureth sulfosuccinate, tetrasodium N-(l,2- dicarboxyethyl)-N-octadecyl sulfosuccinate, diamyl ester of sodium sulfosuccinic acid, dihexyl ester of sodium sulfosuccinic acid, dioctyl esters of sodium sulfosuccinic acid), trisodium sulfosuccinate, or any combination thereof.

[0192] In some aspects, the surfactant blend can be produced by any of the disclosed methods.

[0193] In another aspect, provided is a solubilizer including any of the disclosed surfactant blends. In some aspects, the solubilizer can be produced by any of the disclosed methods.

[0194] Methods

[0195] Described herein are methods of displacing a hydrocarbon material in contact with a solid material is provided. The method includes contacting a hydrocarbon material with a compound as described herein, wherein the hydrocarbon material is in contact with a solid material. The hydrocarbon material is allowed to separate from the solid material thereby displacing the hydrocarbon material in contact with the solid material.

[0196] In other embodiments, the hydrocarbon material is unrefined petroleum (e.g., in a petroleum reservoir). In some further embodiments, the unrefined petroleum is an unrefined petroleum with an API gravity greater than 30. In some embodiments, the API gravity of the unrefined petroleum is greater than 30. In other embodiments, the API gravity of the unrefined petroleum is greater than 40. In some embodiments, the API gravity of the unrefined petroleum is greater than 50. In other embodiments, the API gravity of the unrefined petroleum is greater than 60. In some embodiments, the API gravity of the unrefined petroleum is greater than 70. In other embodiments, the API gravity of the unrefined petroleum is greater than 80. In some embodiments, the API gravity of the unrefined petroleum is greater than 90. In other embodiments, the API gravity of the unrefined petroleum is greater than 100. In some other embodiments, the API gravity of the unrefined petroleum is between 30 and 100.

[0197] The solid material may be a natural solid material (i.e., a solid found in nature such as rock). The natural solid material may be found in a petroleum reservoir. In some embodiments, the method is an enhanced oil recovery method. Enhanced oil recovery methods are well known in the art. A general treatise on enhanced oil recovery methods is Basic Concepts in Enhanced Oil Recovery Processes edited by M. Baviere (published for SCI by Elsevier Applied Science, London and New York, 1991). For example, in an enhanced oil recovery method, the displacing of the unrefined petroleum in contact with the solid material is accomplished by contacting the unrefined with a compound provided herein, wherein the unrefined petroleum is in contact with the solid material. The unrefined petroleum may be in an oil reservoir. The compound or composition provided herein can be pumped into the reservoir in accordance with known enhanced oil recovery parameters. The compound can be pumped into the reservoir as part of the aqueous compositions provided herein and, upon contacting the unrefined petroleum, form an emulsion composition provided herein.

[0198] In some embodiments, the natural solid material can be rock or regolith. The natural solid material can be a geological formation such as clastics or carbonates. The natural solid material can be either consolidated or unconsolidated material or mixtures thereof. The hydrocarbon material may be trapped or confined by "bedrock" above or below the natural solid material. The hydrocarbon material may be found in fractured bedrock or porous natural solid material. In other embodiments, the regolith is soil.

[0199] In some embodiments, an emulsion forms after the contacting step. The emulsion thus formed can be the emulsion described above. In some embodiments, the emulsion thus formed can be a microemulsion. In some embodiments, the method includes allowing an unrefined petroleum acid within the unrefined petroleum material to enter into the emulsion, thereby converting the unrefined petroleum acid into a surfactant. In other words, where the unrefined petroleum acid converts into a surfactant it is mobilized and therefore separates from the solid material. In another aspect, a method of converting (e.g., mobilizing) an unrefined petroleum acid into a surfactant is provided. The method includes contacting a petroleum material with an aqueous composition or a surfactant blend described herein thereby forming an emulsion in contact with the petroleum material, wherein the aqueous composition includes the compound described herein. Thus, in some embodiments, the aqueous composition is the aqueous composition described above. An unrefined petroleum acid within the unrefined petroleum material is allowed to enter into the emulsion, thereby converting the unrefined petroleum acid into a surfactant. In some embodiments, the reactive petroleum material is in a petroleum reservoir. In some embodiments, as described above and as is generally known in the art, the unrefined petroleum acid is a naphthenic acid. In some embodiments, as described above and as is generally known in the art, the unrefined petroleum acid is a mixture of naphthenic acid. In some embodiments, the aqueous composition further includes an alkali agent.

[0200] In these embodiments, the composition can include a compound described herein, an alkali agent, an additional surfactant, a co-solvent, and a polymer. Methods can comprise injecting a composition of this type into a hydrocarbon reservoir comprising unrefined petroleum material in contact with the solid material. In certain embodiments, the unrefined petroleum material can comprise an active oil. In these embodiments, the composition can have a pH effective to convert unrefined petroleum acid present in the unrefined petroleum material into a surfactant.

[0201] In these embodiments, the composition can include a compound described herein, an alkali agent, co-solvent, and a polymer. Methods can include injecting a composition of this type into a hydrocarbon reservoir including unrefined petroleum material in contact with the solid material. In certain embodiments, the unrefined petroleum material can include an active oil. In these embodiments, the composition can have a pH effective to convert unrefined petroleum acid present in the unrefined petroleum material into a surfactant.

[0202] In these embodiments, the composition can include a compound described herein, a co-solvent, and a polymer. Methods can include injecting a composition of this type into a hydrocarbon reservoir including unrefined petroleum material in contact with the solid material.

[0203] In these embodiments, the composition can include a compound described herein. Methods can include injecting a composition of this type into a hydrocarbon reservoir comprising unrefined petroleum material in contact with the solid material. In certain embodiments, the unrefined petroleum material can include an active oil. In these embodiments, the composition can have a pH effective to convert unrefined petroleum acid present in the unrefined petroleum material into a surfactant.

[0204] Also provided herein are methods of making surfactant compositions. These methods can include alkoxylating cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) or a component thereof. In some embodiments, the cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) or a component thereof includes anacardiac acid, cardanol, cardol, 2-methylcardol, or a combination thereof. For example, in some embodiments, the cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) can include a mixture comprising from 70-80% by weight anacardiac acid (e.g., from 74-78% by weight anacardiac acid), from 0.5%-10% by weight cardanol (e.g., from 1 %-10% by weight cardanol), from 12-23% by weight cardol (e.g., from 15-21% by weight cardol), and from 1 to 5% by weight 2- methylcardol (e.g., from 1-3% by weight 2-methylcardol). Alkoxylating the cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) or the component thereof can include propoxylation, ethoxylation, or a combination thereof.

[0205] In some embodiments, the method can further include functionalizing the alkoxylated cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) or the component thereof to include an anionic moiety, a cationic moiety, or a zwitterionic moiety. The anionic moiety can include, for example a carboxylate moiety, a sulfate moiety, a sulfonate moiety, or a combination thereof.

[0206] In some embodiments, the method can further include combining the alkoxylated cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) or a component thereof with one or more additional components.

[0207] In some embodiments, the one or more additional components can include an additional surfactant, a co-solvent, polymer, alkali agent, or any combination thereof described herein.

[0208] Method of preparing a surfactant blend

[0209] In an aspect, provided is a method of preparing a surfactant blend including a carboxylic acid surfactant, the method including: combining a lipid precursor and one or more additional components to form a precursor blend, wherein the one or more additional components can include a co- surfactant, a co-solvent, or a combination thereof; and hydrolyzing the lipid precursor to form the carboxylic acid surfactant.

[0210] In some aspects, the lipid precursor can include a glycerolipid (e.g., a monoglyceride, diglyceride, and / or triglyceride), a glycerophospholipid, a saccharolipid, a sphingolipid, or any combination thereof. In some such aspects, the lipid precursor can include a glycerolipid. In other such aspects, the lipid precursor can include a glycerophospholipid. In yet other such aspects, the lipid precursor can include a saccharolipid. In yet still other such aspects, the lipid precursor can include a sphingolipid.

[0211] In some aspects, the lipid precursor can include a monoglyceride, a diglyceride, a triglyceride, or any combination thereof. In some such aspects, the lipid precursor can include a monoglyceride. In other such aspects, the lipid precursor can include a diglyceride. In yet other such aspects, the lipid precursor can include a triglyceride.

[0212] In some aspects, the lipid precursor can include at least one unsaturated fatty acid substituent. In other aspects, the lipid precursor can include at least one saturated fatty acid substituent. In yet other aspects, the lipid precursor can include at least one unsaturated fatty acid salt and at least one saturated fatty acid salt. In some aspects, the lipid precursor can include at least one branched fatty acid substituent.

[0213] In some aspects, the lipid precursor can include one or more fatty acid substituents selected from capryllic acid, pelargonic acid, capric acid, undecylic acid, lauric acid, tridecylic acid, myristic acid, myristoleic acid, pentadecyclic acid, palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, margaric acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, a-linolenic acid, y-linolenic acid, stearidonic acid, nonadecylic acid, arachidic acid, eicosenoic acid, dihomo-y-linolenic acid, mead acid, arachidonic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, heneicosylic acid, behenic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, tricosylic acid, lignoceric acid, nervonic acid, pentacosylic acid, cerotic acid, heptacosylic acid, montanic acid, nonacosylic acid, melissic acid, henatriacontylic acid, lacceroic acid, psyllic acid, geddic acid, ceroplastic acid, hexatriacontylic acid, anacardic acid, or any combination thereof.

[0214] In some aspects, the lipid precursor can include one or more components from almond oil, argan oil, avocado oil, beech nut oil, broccoli seed oil, canola oil, cashew oil, cashew nut shell liquid, citrus oils, cocoa butter, coconut fat or oil, corn oil, cotton seed oil, flaxseed oil, grape seed oil, grapefruit seed oil, hazelnut oil, jojoba oil, lard, lemon oil, linseed oil, macadamia oil, mango kernel oil, melons and gourd seeds oils, mustard oil, olive oil, orange oil, palm kernel oil, palm oil, palmolein oil, peanut oil, pecan oil, pistachio oil, pine nut oil, pumpkin oil, rapeseed oil, rosehip seed oil, safflower oil, sesame oil, shea butter, soybean oil, sunflower oil, tallow, thistle oil, walnut oil, watermelon seed oil, wheat germ oil, or any combination thereof.

[0215] In some aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can include caprylate, pelargonate, caprate, undecylate, laurate, tridecylate, myristate, myristoleate, pentadecylate, palmitate, palmitoleate, sapienate, margarate, stearate, oleate, elaidate, vaccenate, linoleate, linoelaidate, a-linolenate, y-linolenate, stearidonate, nonadecylate, arachidate, eicosenoate, dihomo-y- linolenate, meadate, arachidonate, eicosapentaenoate, heneicosylate, behenate, erucate, docosahexaenoate, tricosylate, lignocerate, nervonate, pentacosylate, cerotate, heptacosylate, montanate, nonacosylate, melissate, henatriacontylate, lacceroate, psyllate, geddate, ceroplastate, hexatriacontylate, anacardate, an acid or salt thereof, or any combination thereof.

[0216] In some aspects, the carboxylate surfactant can include a compound of Formula IV

[0217] Formula IV or a salt thereof, wherein R1can represent a C15 alkyl group or a C15 alkenyl group. In some such aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can be derived from cashew nut shell liquid.

[0218] In some aspects, R1can represent a linear C15 alkyl group or a linear C15 alkenyl group.

[0219] In some aspects, R1can represent a linear C15 alkyl group or a linear C15 alkenyl group. In some such aspects, R1can be represented by the structure

[0220] In some aspects, R1can be a linear C15 monoene, a linear C15 diene, or a linear C15 triene. In some such aspects, R1can be represented by the structure inother such aspects, R1can be represented by the . in yet other such aspects, R1can be represented by the structure

[0221] In some aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can include a compound of Formula V:

[0222] Formula V or a salt thereof, wherein each of R2and R3can independently represent a C4-C20 alkyl group or a C4-C20 alkenyl group. In some such aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can be produced by the Guerbet reaction.

[0223] In some aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can include 2-butyl-octanoic acid, 2- hexyl-decanoic acid, 2-decyl-tetradecanoic acid, 2-tetradecyl-octadecanoic acid, or any combination thereof. In other aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can include another oxidized Guerbet alcohol.

[0224] In some embodiments, the one or more additional components can include a cosurfactant, a co-solvent, or a combination thereof. In some aspects, the one or more additional components can include a co- surfactant. In some aspects, the one or more additional components can include a co-solvent.

[0225] In some aspects, hydrolyzing the lipid precursor can include: i) adding the lipid precursor to water; ii) adding a pH adjusting agent to induce hydrolysis of ester bonds in the lipid precursor. In some such aspects, the one or more additional components can be added before step i). In other such aspects, the one or more additional components can be added in step i). In yet other such aspects, the one or more additional components can be added between step i) and step ii). In yet still other such aspects, the one or more additional components can be added in step ii). In yet still other such aspects, the one or more additional components can be added after step ii). In some aspects, the pH adjusting agent can be a base.

[0226] In other aspects, hydrolyzing the lipid precursor can include: i) adding the lipid precursor to water including a pH adjusting agent to induce hydrolysis of ester bonds in the lipid precursor. In some such aspects, the one or more additional components can be added before step i). In other such aspects, the one or more additional components can be added in step i). In yet other such aspects, the one or more additional components can be added after step i). In some aspects, the pH adjusting agent can be a base.

[0227] In yet other aspects, hydrolyzing the lipid precursor can include: i) combining the lipid precursor and the one or more additional components, the one or more additional components including water and a pH adjusting agent, to induce hydrolysis of ester bonds in the lipid precursor. In some aspects, the pH adjusting agent can be a base.

[0228] In some aspects, the method can further include adjusting the concentration of the carboxylate surfactant and / or the one or more additional components in the surfactant blend. In some such aspects, the method can further include adding additional water to the surfactant blend. In other such aspects, the method can further include adding additional co-surfactant to the surfactant blend. In yet other such aspects, the method can further include adding additional co-solvent to the surfactant blend.

[0229] Also provided herein are methods of making surfactant compositions. These methods can include carboxy lating a phenol to form a phenol carboxylate; and combining the phenol carboxylate with one or more additional components, wherein the phenol carboxylate is defined by Formula IV

[0230] Formula IV or a salt thereof, wherein R1can represent a C15 alkyl group or a C15 alkenyl group. In some such aspects, the carboxylic acid surfactant can be derived from cashew nut shell liquid.

[0231] In some aspects, R1can represent a linear C15 alkyl group or a linear C15 alkenyl group. In some aspects, R1can represent a linear C15 alkyl group. In some aspects, R1can represent a linear C15 alkenyl group. In some such aspects, R1can be represented by the structure

[0232] In some embodiments, R1can be a linear C15 monoene, a linear C15 diene, or a linear C15 triene. In some embodiments, R1can be a linear C15 monoene. In some embodiments, R1can be a linear C15 diene. In some aspects, R1can be a linear C15 triene. In some embodiments, R1can be represented by the structure omeembodiments,1can be represented by jn someembodiments, R1can be represented by the structure

[0233] In some aspects, the one or more additional components can include a co- surfactant. In some aspects, the co-surfactant can include an anionic surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, a cationic surfactant, a zwitterionic surfactant, or any combination thereof. In some such aspects, the co-surfactant can include an anionic surfactant. In other such aspects, the cosurfactant can include a nonionic surfactant. In yet other such aspects, the co-surfactant can include a cationic surfactant. In yet still other such aspects, the co-surfactant can include a zwitterionic surfactant. In some aspects, the co-surfactant may not include a sulfonate. In some aspects, the co-surfactant can include tri styrylphenol (TSP)-based surfactant.

[0234] In some aspects, the co-surfactant can be present in an amount of at least about 0.5% (e.g., at least 0.6%, at least 0.7%, at least 0.8%, at least 0.9%, at least 1%, at least 1.25%, at least 1.5%, at least 1.75%, at least 2%, at least 2.25%, at least 2.5%, at least 2.75%, at least 3%, at least 3.25%, at least 3.5%, at least 3.75%, at least 4%, at least 4.25%, at least 4.5%, at least 4.75%, at least 5%) by weight. In some aspects, the co-surfactant can be present in an amount of up to 5% (e.g., up to 4.75%, up to 4.5%, up to 4.25%, up to 4%, up to 3.75%, up to 3.5%, up to 3.25%, up to 3%, up to 2.75%, up to 2.5%, up to 2.25%, up to 2%, up to 1.75%, up to 1.5%, up to 1.25%, up to 1%, up to 0.9%, up to 0.8%, up to 0.7%, up to 0.6%, up to 0.5%) by weight.

[0235] It is considered that the co-surfactant can be present in an amount ranging from any of the minimum values described above to any of the maximum values described above. For example, in some aspects, the co-surfactant can be present in an amount of from about 0.5% to about 5% (e.g., from 0.6% to 4.75%, from 0.7% to 4.5%, from 0.8% to 4.25%, from 0.9% to 4%, from 1% to 3.75%, from 1.25% to 3.5%, from 1.5% to 3.25%, from 1.75% to 3%, from 2% to 2.75%, from 2.25% to 2.5%, from 0.5% to 2.5%, from 0.6% to 2.25%, from 0.7% to 2%, from about 0.8% to 1.75%, from 0.9% to 1.5%, from 1% to 1.25%, from 2.25% to 5%, from 2.5% to about 4.75%, from 2.75% to 4.5%, from 3% to 4.25%, from 3.25% to about 4%, from 3.5% to about 3.75%) by weight.

[0236] In some aspects, the one or more additional components can include a co-solvent. In some such aspects, the co-solvent can include an alcohol, an alcohol ethoxylate, a glycol ether, glycol, glycerol, or any combination thereof. The surfactant blends provided herein may include more than one co-solvent. Thus, in some aspects, the one or more additional components can include a plurality of different co-solvents. Where the one or more additional components include a plurality of different co-solvents, the different co-solvents can be distinguished by their chemical (structural) properties. For example, the one or more additional components may include a first co-solvent, a second co-solvent and a third cosolvent, wherein the first co-solvent may be chemically different from the second and the third co-solvent, and the second co-solvent may be chemically different from the third cosolvent. In some aspects, the plurality of different co-solvents can include at least two different alcohols (e.g., a Ci-Ce alcohol and a C1-C4 alcohol). In some aspects, the one or more additional components can include a Ci-G> alcohol and a C1-C4 alcohol. In some aspects, the plurality of different co-solvents can include at least two different alkoxy alcohols (e.g., a Ci-Ce alkoxy alcohol and a C1-C4 alkoxy alcohol). In some aspects, the one or more additional components can include a Ci-Ce alkoxy alcohol and a C1-C4 alkoxy alcohol. In some aspects, the plurality of different co-solvents can include at least two cosolvents selected from the group consisting of alcohols, alkyl alkoxy alcohols and phenyl alkoxy alcohols. For example, the plurality of different co-solvents may include an alcohol and an alkyl alkoxy alcohol, an alcohol and a phenyl alkoxy alcohol, or an alcohol, an alkyl alkoxy alcohol and a phenyl alkoxy alcohol. The alkyl alkoxy alcohols or phenyl alkoxy alcohols provided herein may have a hydrophobic portion (alkyl or aryl chain), a hydrophilic portion (e.g., an alcohol) and optionally an alkoxy (ethoxylate or propoxylate) portion. Thus, in some aspects, the co-solvent can be an alcohol, alkoxy alcohol, glycol ether, glycol or glycerol. Suitable co-solvents are known in the art, and can include, for example, surfactants described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013 / 0281327 which is hereby incorporated herein in its entirety.

[0237] In some aspects, the surfactant blend can further include a chelating agent. In some such aspects, the chelating agent can include ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), methylglycinediacetic acid (MGDA), glutamic acid N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA), ethylene glycol-bis(P-aminoethyl ether)-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (EGTA), diethylenetriamine pentaacetate (DTP A), diethylenetriamine penta(methylene phosphonic acid) (DTPMP), 1- Hydroxy Ethylidene-l,l-Diphosphonic Acid (HEDP), a sulfosuccinate (e.g., disodium N- octadecyl sulfosuccinate, disodium lauryl sulfosuccinate, diammonium lauryl sulfosuccinate, sodium lauryl sulfosuccinate, disodium laureth sulfosuccinate, tetrasodium N-(l,2- dicarboxyethyl)-N-octadecyl sulfosuccinate, diamyl ester of sodium sulfosuccinic acid, dihexyl ester of sodium sulfosuccinic acid, dioctyl esters of sodium sulfosuccinic acid), trisodium sulfosuccinate, or any combination thereof.

[0238] In some aspects, the precursor blend can be basic. In some aspects, the precursor blend can have a pH of about 8 or greater (e.g., about 8.5 or greater, about 9 or greater, about 9.5 or greater, about 10 or greater, about 10.5 or greater, about 11 or greater, about 11.5 or greater, about 12 or greater). In some aspects, the precursor blend can have a pH of about 10 or greater.

[0239] By way of non-limiting illustration, examples of certain embodiments of the present disclosure are given below.

[0240] EXAMPLES

[0241] Example 1: Carboxylate Surfactants as Surface- Active Organic Alkali

[0242] Oils may contain Naphthenic acids that may be difficult to neutralize with Alkali. Thus, such oils may appear as "inactive" oils. Inclusion of a carboxylate(Soap) in the alkaline formulation results in evidence for Naphthenic soap generation from an “inactive” oil.

[0243] An active oil was used in these studies to study the efficacy of the proposed classes of surface active agents. Active oil properties: viscous oil at 25°C with high naphthenic acid level (acid number >2mg KOH / g of oil) (Ref. <0.5mg KOH / g of Oil considered inactive, 0.5- Img considered partially active, and >lmg / g of oil considered active oil). Surface Active Carboxylate: CI I-CO2 Na (Sodium Laurate) is the same as C12 carboxylate-Na salt. Source: Coconut oil. Coconut oil was hydrolyzed to lauric acid and higher acids. Lauric acid neutralization gives sodium laurate with very low water solubility at 25°C. Results for the surface activity of 0.25% sodium laurate at 68°C at 9.75 pH is shown in Figure 1. A comparative experiment with 2-ethyl hexanoate, Na salt generated from 2-ethyl hexanoic acid neutralization showed no oil solubilization. Insufficient surface activity of the branched C8 carboxylate-Na. See Figure 2.

[0244] Example 2 : Cashew Nut Shell Liquid Surfactant and Cardphenol Hydrophobe

[0245] Cashew nut shells are considered “agricultural waste”. The liquid squeezed out via mechanical, thermal, or solvent means produce up to 20% of the Cashew Nut Shells Liquid (“CNSL”). The non-carboxylate components are grouped together as card phenol. Figure 6 shows the composition of CNSL. CNSL neutralized as is to produce CNSL carboxylate soap, accompanied by minority products, card phenol (CNSL approximately 70% and card phenol approximately 30%). CNSL can be thermally decarboxylated into card phenol. Card phenol can be alkoxylated with PO and EO followed by optional functionalization. Aqueous Stability is limited, specially with NaCl or Na2CO3 scan. Co-solvent such as lBA(lso- Butanol) helps improve Aqueous Stability. See Figure 3.

[0246] Figure 4A and 4B show phase behavior images and oil and water solubilization ratios for ASP Formulation 17 (0.3 wt% cardphenol-5PO-5EO and 0.3 wt% C20:24IOS at a temperature of 70°C and with an oil viscosity of 3.2 cp with Na2CO3.

[0247] Figure 5A and 5B show phase behavior images and oil and water solubilization ratios for SP Formulation 17 (0.3 wt% cardphenol -5PO-5EO and 0.3 wt% C20:24IOS at a temperature of 70°C and with an oil viscosity of 3.2 cp with NaCl.

[0248] All of the compositions and methods disclosed and claimed herein can be made and executed without undue experimentation in light of the present disclosure. While the compositions and methods of this disclosure have been described in terms of preferred embodiments, it will be apparent to those of skill in the art that variations may be applied to the compositions and methods and in the steps or in the sequence of steps of the methods described herein without departing from the concept, spirit and scope of the disclosure. More specifically, it will be apparent that certain agents which are both chemically related may be substituted for the agents described herein while the same or similar results would be achieved. All such similar substitutes and modifications apparent to those skilled in the art are deemed to be within the spirit, scope and concept of the disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A method of preparing a surfactant blend comprising a carboxylic acid surfactant, the method comprising: combining a lipid precursor and one or more additional components to form a precursor blend, wherein the one or more additional components comprise a co- surfactant, a co-solvent, or a combination thereof; and hydrolyzing the lipid precursor to form the carboxylate surfactant.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the lipid precursor comprises a glycerolipid (e.g., a monoglyceride, diglyceride, and / or triglyceride), a glycerophospholipid, a saccharolipid, a sphingolipid, or any combination thereof.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the lipid precursor comprises a glycerolipid.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the lipid precursor comprises a monoglyceride, a diglyceride, a triglyceride, or any combination thereof.

5. The method of any one of claims 1-4, wherein the lipid precursor comprises at least one unsaturated fatty acid substituent.

6. The method of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the lipid precursor comprises at least one branched fatty acid substituent.

7. The method of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the lipid precursor comprises one or more fatty acid substituents selected from capryllic acid, pelargonic acid, capric acid, undecylic acid, lauric acid, tridecylic acid, myristic acid, myristoleic acid, pentadecyclic acid, palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, sapienic acid, margaric acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, elaidic acid, vaccenic acid, linoleic acid, linoelaidic acid, a-linolenic acid, y-linolenic acid, stearidonic acid, nonadecylic acid, arachidic acid, eicosenoic acid, dihomo-y-linolenic acid, mead acid, arachidonic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, heneicosylic acid, behenic acid, erucic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, tricosylic acid, lignoceric acid, nervonic acid, pentacosylic acid, cerotic acid, heptacosylic acid, montanic acid, nonacosylic acid, melissic acid,henatriacontylic acid, lacceroic acid, psyllic acid, geddic acid, ceroplastic acid, hexatriacontylic acid, anacardic acid, or any combination thereof.

8. The method of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the lipid precursor comprises one or more components from almond oil, argan oil, avocado oil, beech nut oil, broccoli seed oil, canola oil, cashew oil, cashew nut shell liquid, citrus oils, cocoa butter, coconut fat or oil, com oil, cotton seed oil, flaxseed oil, grape seed oil, grapefruit seed oil, hazelnut oil, jojoba oil, lard, lemon oil, linseed oil, macadamia oil, mango kernel oil, melons and gourd seeds oils, mustard oil, olive oil, orange oil, palm kernel oil, palm oil, palmolein oil, peanut oil, pecan oil, pistachio oil, pine nut oil, pumpkin oil, rapeseed oil, rosehip seed oil, safflower oil, sesame oil, shea butter, soybean oil, sunflower oil, tallow, thistle oil, walnut oil, watermelon seed oil, wheat germ oil, or any combination thereof.

9. The method of any one of claims 1-8, wherein the carboxylic acid surfactant comprises caprylate, pelargonate, caprate, undecylate, laurate, tridecylate, myristate, myristoleate, pentadecylate, palmitate, palmitoleate, sapienate, margarate, stearate, oleate, elaidate, vaccenate, linoleate, linoelaidate, a-linolenate, y-linolenate, stearidonate, nonadecylate, arachidate, eicosenoate, dihomo-y-linolenate, meadate, arachidonate, eicosapentaenoate, heneicosylate, behenate, erucate, docosahexaenoate, tricosylate, lignocerate, nervonate, pentacosylate, cerotate, heptacosylate, montanate, nonacosylate, melissate, henatriacontylate, lacceroate, psyllate, geddate, ceroplastate, hexatriacontylate, anacardate, an acid or salt thereof, or any combination thereof.

10. The method of any one of claims 1-9, wherein the carboxylic acid surfactant comprises a compound of Formula IV :Formula IV or a salt thereof, wherein R1represents a Cis alkyl group or a Cis alkenyl group.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein R1represents a linear Cis alkyl group or a linear Cis alkenyl group.

12. The method of claim 11 , wherein R1is represented by the structure13. The method of any one of claims 10-12, wherein R1is a linear Cis monoene, a linear Ci 5 diene, or a linear Cis triene.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein R1is represented by any of the structures15. The method of any one of claims 1-14, wherein the carboxylic acid surfactant comprises a compound of Formula V :Formula V or a salt thereof, wherein each of R2and R3independently represents a C4-C20 alkyl group or a C4-C20 alkenyl group.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the carboxylic acid surfactant comprises 2-butyl- octanoic acid, 2-hexyl-decanoic acid, 2-decyl-tetradecanoic acid, 2-tetradecyl-octadecanoic acid, or any combination thereof.

17. The method of any one of claims 1-16, wherein the carboxylic acid surfactant is present in an amount of from about 0.5% by weight to about 5% by weight.

18. IThe method of any one of claims 1-17, wherein the one or more additional components comprise a co-surfactant.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the co-surfactant comprises an anionic surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, a cationic surfactant, a zwitterionic surfactant, or any combination thereof.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the co-surfactant comprises an anionic surfactant.

21. The method of claim 19, wherein the co-surfactant comprises a nonionic surfactant.

22. The method of any one of claims 18-21, wherein the co-surfactant does not comprise a sulfonate.

23. The method of any one of claims 18-22, wherein the co-surfactant comprises a tristyrylphenol (TSP)-based surfactant.

24. The method of any one of claims 18-22, wherein the co-surfactant is present in an amount of from about 0.5% by weight to about 5% by weight.

25. The method of any one of claims 1-24, wherein the one or more additional components comprise a co-solvent.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein the co-solvent comprises an alcohol, an alcohol ethoxylate, a glycol ether, glycol, glycerol, or any combination thereof.

27. The method of any one of claims 1-26, further comprising adding a chelating agent.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein the chelating agent comprises ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), methylglycinediacetic acid (MGDA), glutamic acid N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA), ethylene glycol-bis(P-aminoethyl ether)-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (EGTA), diethylenetriamine pentaacetate (DTP A), diethylenetriamine penta(methylene phosphonic acid) (DTPMP), 1 -Hydroxy Ethylidene- 1 , 1 -Diphosphonic Acid (HEDP), a sulfosuccinate (e.g., disodium N-octadecyl sulfosuccinate, disodium lauryl sulfosuccinate, diammonium lauryl sulfosuccinate, sodium lauryl sulfosuccinate, disodium laureth sulfosuccinate, tetrasodium N-(l,2-dicarboxyethyl)-N-octadecyl sulfosuccinate, diamyl ester of sodium sulfosuccinic acid, dihexyl ester of sodium sulfosuccinic acid, dioctyl esters of sodium sulfosuccinic acid), trisodium sulfosuccinate, or any combination thereof.

29. The method of any one of claims 1-28, wherein the precursor blend has a pH of about 10 or greater.

30. The method of any one of claims 1-29, wherein the method comprises: i) adding the lipid precursor and the one or more additional components to water to form the precursor blend; and ii) adding a pH adjusting agent to the precursor blend to induce hydrolysis of ester bonds in the lipid precursor. 1 . The method of any one of claims 1 -29, wherein the method comprises: i) adding the lipid precursor and the one or more additional components to water comprising a pH adjusting agent to induce hydrolysis of ester bonds in the lipid precursor.

32. The method of any one of claims 1-29, wherein the method comprises: i) combining the lipid precursor and the one or more additional components, the one or more additional components comprising water and a pH adjusting agent, to induce hydrolysis of ester bonds in the lipid precursor.

33. The method of any one of claims 30-32, wherein the pH adjusting agent is a base.

34. A surfactant blend comprising a carboxylic acid surfactant and one or more additional components, wherein the one or more additional components comprise a co-surfactant, a cosolvent, or a combination thereof35. The surfactant blend of claim 34, wherein the carboxylic acid surfactant comprises at least one unsaturated fatty acid salt.

36. The surfactant blend of any one of claims 34-35, wherein the carboxylic acid surfactant comprises at least one branched fatty acid salt.

37. The surfactant blend of any one of claims 34-36, wherein the carboxylic acid surfactant comprises caprylate, pelargonate, caprate, undecylate, laurate, tridecylate, myristate, myristoleate, pentadecylate, palmitate, palmitoleate, sapienate, margarate, stearate, oleate, elaidate, vaccenate, linoleate, linoelaidate, a-linolenate, / -linolenate, stearidonate, nonadecylate, arachidate, eicosenoate, dihomo-y-linolenate, meadate, arachidonate, eicosapentaenoate, heneicosylate, behenate, erucate, docosahexaenoate, tricosylate,lignocerate, nervonate, pentacosylate, cerotate, heptacosylate, montanate, nonacosylate, melissate, henatriacontylate, lacceroate, psyllate, geddate, ceroplastate, hexatriacontylate, anacardate, an acid or salt thereof, or any combination thereof.

38. The surfactant blend of any one of claims 34-38, wherein the carboxylic acid surfactant comprises a compound of Formula IV:Formula IV or a salt thereof, wherein R1represents a C1.5 alkyl group or a Cis alkenyl group.

39. The surfactant blend of claim 38, wherein R1represents a linear Cis alkyl group or a linear Cis alkenyl group.

40. The surfactant blend of claim 39, wherein R1is represented by the structure41. The surfactant blend of any one of claims 38-40, wherein R1is a linear Cis monoene, a linear Cis diene, or a linear Cis triene.

42. The surfactant blend of claim 41, wherein R1is represented by any of the structures43. The surfactant blend of any one of claims 34-42, wherein the carboxylic acid surfactant comprises a compound of Formula V:Formula V or a salt thereof, wherein each of R2and R3independently represents a C4-C20 alkyl group or a C4-C20 alkenyl group.

44. The surfactant blend of claim 43, wherein the carboxylic acid surfactant comprises 2- butyl-octanoic acid, 2-hexyl-decanoic acid, 2-decyl-tetradecanoic acid, 2-tetradecyl- octadecanoic acid, or any combination thereof.

45. The surfactant blend of any one of claims 34-44, wherein the carboxylic acid surfactant is present in an amount of from about 0.5% by weight to about 5% by weight.

46. The surfactant blend of any one of claims 34-45, wherein the one or more additional components comprise a co-surfactant.

47. The surfactant blend of claim 76, wherein the co-surfactant comprises an anionic surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, a cationic surfactant, a zwitterionic surfactant, or any combination thereof.

48. The surfactant blend of claim 47, wherein the co-surfactant comprises an anionic surfactant.

49. The surfactant blend of claim 47, wherein the co-surfactant comprises a nonionic surfactant.

50. The surfactant blend of any one of claims 46-49, wherein the co-surfactant does not comprise a sulfonate.

51. The surfactant blend of any one of claims 46-50 wherein the co-surfactant comprises tristyrylphenol (TSP)-based surfactant.

52. The surfactant blend of any one of claims 46-51, wherein the co-surfactant is present in an amount of from about 0.5% by weight to about 5% by weight.

53. The surfactant blend of any one of claims 34-52, wherein the one or more additional components comprise a co-solvent.

54. The surfactant blend of claim 53, wherein the co-solvent comprises an alcohol, an alcohol ethoxylate, a glycol ether, glycol, glycerol, or any combination thereof.

55. The surfactant blend of any one of claims 34-54, further comprising a chelating agent.

56. The surfactant blend of claim 55, wherein the chelating agent comprises ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), methylglycinediacetic acid (MGDA), glutamic acid N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA), ethylene glycol-bis(P-aminoethyl ether)-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (EGTA), diethylenetriamine pentaacetate (DTP A), diethylenetriamine penta(methylene phosphonic acid) (DTPMP), 1 -Hydroxy Ethylidene-l ,l -Diphosphonic Acid (HEDP), a sulfosuccinate (e.g., disodium N-octadecyl sulfosuccinate, disodium lauryl sulfosuccinate, diammonium lauryl sulfosuccinate, sodium lauryl sulfosuccinate, disodium laureth sulfosuccinate, tetrasodium N-(l,2-dicarboxyethyl)-N-octadecyl sulfosuccinate, diamyl ester of sodium sulfosuccinic acid, dihexyl ester of sodium sulfosuccinic acid, dioctyl esters of sodium sulfosuccinic acid), trisodium sulfosuccinate, or any combination thereof.

57. The surfactant blend of any one of claims 34-56, wherein the surfactant blend is used in an oil and gas operation, such as an enhanced oil recovery operation.

58. The surfactant blend of any one of claims 34-56, wherein the surfactant blend is used as an emulsion breaker.

59. A solubilizer comprising the surfactant blend of any one of claims 34-58.

60. An emulsion comprising the surfactant blend of any one of claims 34-58 and unrefined petroleum.

61. A compound defined by Formula IFormula I whereinBO represents, individually for each occurrence, -CH2-CH(ethyl)-O- or -CHsCHiO-jCHs;PO represents, individually for each occurrence, -CH2-CH(methyl)-0-;EO represents, individually for each occurrence, -CH2-CH2-O-;R1represents a C15 alkyl group or a C 15 alkenyl group;R2represents hydrogen or methyl;Q is hydrogen, -SO3M+, -SO3H, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3M+, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3H, - CH2C(O)O’M+, or -CH2C(O)OH;M+, when present, is a cation; x is an integer from 0 to 15; y is an integer from 0 to 50; and z is an integer from 1 to 100.

62. The compound of claim 61, wherein x is an integer from 1 to 5.

63. The compound of claim 61, wherein x is 0.

64. The compound of any one of claims 61-63, wherein y is 0.

65. The compound of any one of claims 61-63, wherein y is an integer from 1 to 50, such as an integer from 1 to 40, from 1 to 30, from 1 to 20, from 1 to 10, from 5 to 40, from 5 to 30, from 5 to 20, from 5 to 10, from 10 to 40, from 10 to 30, or from 10 to 20.

66. The compound of any one of claims 61-65, wherein x is an integer from 1 to 50, such as an integer from 1 to 40, from 1 to 30, from 1 to 20, from 1 to 10, from 5 to 40, from 5 to 30, from 5 to 20, from 5 to 10, from 10 to 40, from 10 to 30, or from 10 to 20.

67. The compound of any one of claims 61-66, wherein R2is hydrogen.

68. The compound of any one of claims 61-66, wherein R2is methyl.

69. The compound of any one of claims 61-68, wherein Q is hydrogen.

70. The compound of any one of claims 61-68, wherein Q is -SO3M+, -SO3H,CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3M+, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3H, -CH2C(O)O M+, or -CH2C(O)OH.

71. The compound of any one of claims 61-70, wherein R1represents a linear C15 alkyl group or a linear C15 alkenyl group.

72. The compound of any one of claims 61-71, wherein R1is represented by the structure below73. The compound of any one of claims 61-71, wherein R1is a linear C15 monoene, a linear C15 diene, or a linear C15 triene.

74. The compound of claim 73, wherein R1is represented by the structure below75. The compound of claim 73, wherein R1is represented by the structure below76. The compound of claim 73, wherein R1is represented by the structure below77. A compound defined by Formula IIFormula II whereinBO represents -CH2-CH(ethyl)-O- or -CH3CH(O-)CH3;PO represents -CH2-CH(methyl)-O-;EO represents -CH2-CH2-O-;R1represents a C15 alkyl group or a C 15 alkenyl group;Q is hydrogen, -SO3M+, -SO3H, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3M+, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3H, - CH2C(O)O’M+, or -CH2C(O)OH;M+, when present, is a cation; x is an integer from 0 to 15; y is an integer from 0 to 50; and z is an integer from 1 to 100.

78. The compound of claim 77, wherein x is an integer from 1 to 5.

79. The compound of claim 77, wherein x is 0.

80. The compound of any one of claims 77-79, wherein y is 0.81 . The compound of any one of claims 77-79, wherein y is an integer from 1 to 50, such as an integer from 1 to 40, from 1 to 30, from 1 to 20, from 1 to 10, from 5 to 40, from 5 to 30, from 5 to 20, from 5 to 10, from 10 to 40, from 10 to 30, or from 10 to 20.

82. The compound of any one of claims 77-81, wherein x is an integer from 1 to 50, such as an integer from 1 to 40, from 1 to 30, from 1 to 20, from 1 to 10, from 5 to 40, from 5 to30, from 5 to 20, from 5 to 10, from 10 to 40, from 10 to 30, or from 10 to 20.

83. The compound of any one of claims 77-82, wherein Q is hydrogen.

84. The compound of any one of claims 77-82, wherein Q is -SO3M+, -SO3H,CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3M+, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3H, -CH2C(O)O’M+, or -CH2C(O)OH.

85. The compound of any one of claims 77-84, wherein R1represents a linear C15 alkyl group or a linear C15 alkenyl group.

86. The compound of any one of claims 77-85, wherein R1is represented by the structure below87. The compound of any one of claims 77-84, wherein R1is a linear C15 monoene, a linear C15 diene, or a linear C15 triene.

88. The compound of claim 87, wherein R1is represented by the structure below89. The compound of claim 87, wherein R1is represented by the structure below90. The compound of claim 87, wherein R1is represented by the structure below91. A compound defined by Formula IIIFormula III or a salt thereof, whereinBO represents -CH2-CH(ethyl)-O- or -CH3CH(O-)CH3;PO represents -CH2-CH(methyl)-O-;EO represents -CH2-CH2-O-;R1represents a Cis alkyl group or a Cis alkenyl group;R3represents hydrogen, an alkyl group, an alkoxy group, an aryl group, or an alkyleneoxy group;Q is hydrogen, -SO3M+, -SO3H, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3M+, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO3H, - CH2C(O)O’M+, or -CH2C(O)OH;M+, when present, is a cation; x is an integer from 0 to 15; y is an integer from 0 to 50; and z is an integer from 1 to 100.

92. The compound of claim 91, wherein x is an integer from 1 to 5.

93. The compound of claim 91 , wherein x is 0.

94. The compound of any one of claims 91-93, wherein y is 0.

95. The compound of any one of claims 91-93, wherein y is an integer from 1 to 50, such as an integer from 1 to 40, from 1 to 30, from 1 to 20, from 1 to 10, from 5 to 40, from 5 to 30, from 5 to 20, from 5 to 10, from 10 to 40, from 10 to 30, or from 10 to 20.

96. The compound of any one of claims 91-95, wherein x is an integer from 1 to 50, such as an integer from 1 to 40, from 1 to 30, from 1 to 20, from 1 to 10, from 5 to 40, from 5 to 30, from 5 to 20, from 5 to 10, from 10 to 40, from 10 to 30, or from 10 to 20.

97. The compound of any one of claims 91-96, wherein Q is hydrogen.

98. The compound of any one of claims 91-96, wherein Q is -SOsM+, -SO3H, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO2M+, CH2CH(OH)CH2-SO2H, -CH2C(O)O’M+, or -CH2C(O)OH.

99. The compound of any one of claims 91-98, wherein R1represents a linear C15 alkyl group or a linear C15 alkenyl group.

100. The compound of any one of claims 91-99, wherein R1is represented by the structure below101. The compound of any one of claims 91-98, wherein R1is a linear C15 monoene, a linear C15 diene, or a linear C15 triene.

102. The compound of claim 101, wherein R1is represented by the structure below103. The compound of claim 101, wherein R1is represented by the structure below104. The compound of claim 101, wherein R1is represented by the structure below105. A composition comprising a compound of any one of claims 61-104 and water.

106. The composition of claim 105, wherein the compound is present in the composition in an amount of from 0.05% to 5% by weight, such as from 0.05% to 2% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

107. The composition of any one of claims 105-106, one or more additional components, wherein the one or more additional components comprise an additional surfactant, a cosolvent, polymer, alkali agent, or any combination thereof.

108. The composition of any one of claims 105-107, wherein the composition further comprises an additional surfactant.

109. The composition of claim 108, wherein the additional surfactant comprises an anionic surfactant, a non-ionic surfactant, a cationic surfactant, a zwitteronic surfactant, or any combination thereof.

110. The composition of any one of claims 108-109, wherein the additional surfactant is present in the composition in an amount of 0.05% to 5% by weight, such as from 0.05% to 2% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

111. The composition of any one of claims 107-110, wherein the composition further comprises a polymer, such as a viscosity-enhancing water-soluble polymer.

112. The composition of any one of claims 107-11, wherein the composition further comprises an alkali agent.

113. The composition of claim 112, wherein the composition has a pH of from 7 to 14, such as from 10 to 12.

114. The composition of any one of claims 107-113, wherein the composition further comprises a co-solvent.

115. The composition of any one of claims 107-114, wherein the composition has a salinity of at least 5,000 ppm.

116. The composition of any one of claims 107-115, wherein the composition is used in an oil and gas operation, such as an enhanced oil recovery operation.

117. The composition of any one of claims 107-116, wherein the composition is used as an emulsion breaker.

118. A composition comprising anacardiac acid or a salt thereof and water.

119. The composition of claim 117, wherein the anacardiac acid or a salt thereof is present in the composition in an amount of from 0.05% to 5% by weight, such as from 0.05% to 2% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

120. The composition of any one of claims 118-1 19, one or more additional components, wherein the one or more additional components comprise an additional surfactant, a cosolvent, polymer, alkali agent, or any combination thereof.

121. The composition of any one of claims 118-121, wherein the composition further comprises an additional surfactant.

122. The composition of claim 121, wherein the additional surfactant comprises an anionic surfactant, a non-ionic surfactant, a cationic surfactant, a zwitteronic surfactant, or any combination thereof.

123. The composition of any one of claims 118-122, wherein the additional surfactant is present in the composition in an amount of 0.05% to 5% by weight, such as from 0.05% to 2% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition.

124. The composition of any one of claims 118-123, wherein the composition further comprises a polymer, such as a viscosity-enhancing water-soluble polymer.

125. The composition of any one of claims 118-124, wherein the composition further comprises an alkali agent.

126. The composition of claim 125, wherein the composition has a pH of from 7 to 14, such as from 10 to 12.

127. The composition of any one of claims 118-126, wherein the composition further comprises a co-solvent.

128. The composition of any one of claims 118-127, wherein the composition has a salinity of at least 5,000 ppm.

129. The composition of any one of claims 118-128, wherein the composition is used in an oil and gas operation, such as an enhanced oil recovery operation.

130. The composition of any one of claims 118-128, wherein the composition is used as an emulsion breaker.

131. An emulsion comprising the compound of any one of claims 61-104 or the composition of any one of claims 105-130 and unrefined petroleum.

132. A method of displacing an unrefined petroleum material in contact with a solid material, said method comprising: contacting the unrefined petroleum material with the surfactant blend of any one of claims 34-58, the compound of any one of claims 61-104, or the composition of any one of claims 105-130, wherein the unrefined petroleum material is in contact with the solid material; and allowing the unrefined petroleum material to separate from the solid material, thereby displacing the unrefined petroleum material in contact with the solid material.

133. A method of making a surfactant composition comprising alkoxylating cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) or a component thereof.

134. The method of claim 133, further comprising combining the alkoxylated cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) or a component thereof with one or more additional components.

135. The method of claim 134, wherein the one or more additional components comprises an additional surfactant, a co-solvent, polymer, alkali agent, or any combination thereof.

136. The method of any one of claims 133-135, wherein the cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) or a component thereof comprises anacardiac acid, cardanol, cardol, 2-methylcardol, or a combination thereof.

137. The method of any of claims 133-136, wherein alkoxylating the cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) or the component thereof comprises propoxylation, ethoxylation, or a combination thereof.

138. The method of any of claims 133-137, wherein the method further comprises functionalizing the alkoxylated cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL) or the component thereof to include an anionic moiety, a cationic moiety, or a zwitterionic moiety.

139. The method of claim 138, wherein the anionic moiety comprises a carboxylate moiety, a sulfate moiety, a sulfonate moiety, or a combination thereof.

140. A composition for use in an oil and gas operation, such as an enhanced oil recovery operation, the composition comprising anacardiac acid or a cationic or zwitterionic derivative thereof, the surfactant blend of any one of claims 34-58, the compound of any one of claims 61-104, or the composition of any one of claims 105-130.

141. A method of displacing an unrefined petroleum material in contact with a solid material, said method comprising: contacting the unrefined petroleum material with a composition comprising anacardiac acid or a cationic or zwitterionic derivative thereof, wherein the unrefined petroleum material is in contact with the solid material; and allowing the unrefined petroleum material to separate from the solid material, thereby displacing the unrefined petroleum material in contact with the solid material.

142. A polymer derived from condensation of an alcohol and an aldehyde, wherein the alcohol comprises a compound defined by Formula IVFormula IV whereinBO represents -CH2-CH(ethyl)-O- or -CH3CH(O-)CH3;PO represents -CH2-CH(methyl)-O-;EO represents -CH2-CH2-O-;R1represents a C15 alkyl group or a C 15 alkenyl group;Q is hydrogen; x is an integer from 0 to 15; y is an integer from 0 to 50; and z is an integer from 0 to 100.

143. The polymer of claim 142, wherein the aldehyde comprises formaldehyde.

144. The polymer of any of claims 142-143, wherein x is an integer from 1 to 5.

145. The polymer of any of claims 142-144, wherein x is 0.

146. The polymer of any of claims 142-145, wherein y is 0.

147. The polymer of any of claims 142-146, wherein y is an integer from 1 to 50, such as an integer from 1 to 40, from 1 to 30, from 1 to 20, from 1 to 10, from 5 to 40, from 5 to 30, from 5 to 20, from 5 to 10, from 10 to 40, from 10 to 30, or from 10 to 20.

148. The polymer of any of claims 142-148, wherein x is 0.

149. The polymer of any of claims 142-148, wherein x is an integer from 1 to 50, such as an integer from 1 to 40, from 1 to 30, from 1 to 20, from 1 to 10, from 5 to 40, from 5 to 30, from 5 to 20, from 5 to 10, from 10 to 40, from 10 to 30, or from 10 to 20.

150. The polymer of any of claims 142-149, wherein R1represents a linear Cis alkyl group or a linear Cis alkenyl group.

151. The polymer of any of claims 142-150, wherein R1is represented by the structure below152. The polymer of any of claims 142-149, wherein R1is a linear Cis monoene, a linear C is diene, or a linear Cis triene.

153. The polymer of claim 152, wherein R1is represented by the structure below154. The polymer of claim 152, wherein R1is represented by the structure below155. The polymer of claim 152, wherein R1is represented by the structure below156. The polymer of any of claims 142-155, wherein the alcohol comprises cardanol.

157. The polymer of any of claims 142-156, wherein the polymer is used in an oil and gas operation, such as an enhanced oil recovery operation.

158. The polymer of any of claims 142-157, wherein the polymer is used as an emulsion breaker.

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