A holistic review of two methods (chemical and low-salinity water) for EOR and inhibiting asphaltene deposition; mechanisms, economic aspects, and introducing an innovative technique

• Essential information was gathered on the impact of waterflooding techniques on EOR and asphaltene damage. • A -literature review was conducted on two flooding methods (chemical and low-salinity water) in oil reservoirs. • Innovative remarks involving the use of both methods were proposed. • The interaction of rock and fluid in the presence of various compounds was investigated. • Basic factors and mechanisms affecting the two methods (chemical and low-salinity water) in oil reservoirs were studied. This comprehensive review critically examines enhanced oil recovery (EOR) strategies, with a focus on chemical flooding and low salinity water injection, aiming both to improve hydrocarbon recovery and to mitigate asphaltene deposition. By systematically reviewing numerous previous studies, we elucidate the underlying mechanisms such as interfacial tension reduction, wettability alteration, and multi-ion exchange that govern the performance of surfactants, polymers, alkaline solutions, nanoparticles/nanocomposites, and engineered brines. Although each method shows significant potential, inherent limitations including surfactant adsorption, nanoparticle aggregation, and inconsistent ionic activity in complex reservoirs impede optimal field-scale application. The central innovation presented is a transformative synergistic approach that integrates nanoparticles, surfactants, and low salinity water into a unified fluid system. This hybrid technique leverages complementary strengths: low salinity water preconditions the rock surface and optimizes brine chemistry; surfactants achieve ultra-low interfacial tension; and nanoparticles enhance sweep efficiency, provide structural disjoining pressure, and actively inhibit asphaltene precipitation through adsorption and dispersion. The analysis confirms that this synergy yields superior outcomes in recovery efficiency and flow assurance while simultaneously addressing economic and environmental concerns. Furthermore, the review introduces a novel qualitative framework for assessing the applicability of chemical and low salinity water techniques at each stage of EOR projects a contribution not previously documented in the literature. This holistic work not only consolidates decades of disparate research but also charts a clear pathway toward precision-engineered, reservoir-tailored fluid systems, marking a paradigm shift from singular solutions to integrated, sustainable reservoir management strategies for maximizing recovery in challenging formations.